The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has informed the Bombay High Court that it is prepared to issue a certificate for Kangana Ranaut's film 'Emergency', provided the producers agree to implement certain recommended cuts.
In the film, Kangana Ranaut portrays former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Originally slated for release on September 6, the movie has faced delays due to a dispute between the filmmakers and the censor board regarding the certification.
CBFC agrees to release Kangana Ranaut's 'Emergency'
Kangana Ranaut, who directed and co-produced 'Emergency' in addition to playing the lead role, has accused the CBFC of intentionally delaying the certification process to stall the film’s release. The film has also faced objections from some Sikh organizations, including the Shiromani Akali Dal, who claim the movie misrepresents their community and distorts historical facts.
The Bombay High Court had criticised the CBFC last week for its inaction on the certification issue and ordered the board to make a decision by September 25.
ALSO READ: Kangana Ranaut's 'Emergency' Gets U/A Certificate By Censor Board, Scenes Cut And Disclaimer Added
Zee Entertainment Enterprises, the film’s co-producer, had approached the court to expedite the issuance of the certificate. During Thursday's hearing, the court asked the CBFC whether there was any progress. CBFC's counsel, Abhinav Chandrachud, informed the court that the board’s revising committee had made its decision, recommending certain cuts before the certificate could be granted.
Senior counsel Sharan Jagtiani, representing Zee Entertainment, requested more time to determine whether the proposed cuts were acceptable. The court has scheduled the next hearing for September 30.
Last week, Zee Entertainment had claimed that the certification was being withheld for political reasons, particularly due to the upcoming elections in Haryana.
About Emergency
Emergency is a biographical political drama centered around the 21-month period from 1975 to 1977 when then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency in India. Kangana Ranaut has donned the director's hat once again for this political drama alongwith essaying the role of the protagonist.
The film features an ensemble cast including Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair, Mahima Chaudhry, Milind Soman, and late Satish Kaushik in key roles.
(With PTI Inputs)