SC to hear plea seeking lifting of stay on ‘Udaipur Files' release—Details inside
The Supreme Court of India has reportedly agreed to hear a plea challenging the Delhi High Court's interim stay on the release of the controversial film 'Udaipur Files.' The film is based on the 2022 murder of Kanhaiya Lal in Udaipur, Rajasthan.
According to PTI, the plea was mentioned by Senior Advocate Gaurav Bhatia on behalf of the film's producer, who argued that the
Central Board of Film Certification
(CBFC) has already cleared the film for public viewing and that preventing its release violates the filmmaker's fundamental rights.
The Delhi High Court had stayed the release, citing public order concerns.
The Delhi High Court, on July 10, ordered a stay on the film's release just a day before its scheduled opening following petitions by Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind and journalist Prashant Tandon.
The court ruled that the stay would remain in force until the Central Government decides on a revision application challenging the CBFC's decision to certify the film.
Censor Board makes 150 cuts to 'The Udaipur Files', film based on Kanhaiya Lal murder case
A Division Bench led by Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Anish Dayal stated that the release of the film must be put on hold while the petitioners pursue legal remedies under the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
Concerns over communal harmony and electoral timing
Reportedly, the petitioners argue that 'Udaipur Files,' which portrays the brutal daylight killing of tailor Kanhaiya Lal allegedly for supporting Nupur Sharma, may start communal tensions and disturb public order.
The petitioners also say that this is highlighted, especially given the film's release timing just ahead of state elections.
While refraining from commenting on the film's content, the Delhi High Court noted the importance of following due legal procedure and avoiding irreparable harm before the matter is fully adjudicated.
About 'Udaipur Files'
Inspired by the real-life murder of Kanhaiya Lal Sahu, 'Udaipur Files' is directed by Bharat S Shrinate and stars Vijay Raaz, Rajneesh Duggal, Preeti Jhangiani, Kamlesh Sawant, and Kanchi Singh in pivotal roles.
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