The high court is requested to take up the said petitions on Monday, as mentioned by a bench of justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi. The court clarified that it had not passed any orders on the merits of the petitions before it, giving the high court the freedom to make appropriate decisions within the law.
The Movie Controversy
The court’s decision came in response to separate petitions filed by movie producer Jani Firefox Media Private Limited and Mohammad Javed, the main accused in the Kanhaiya Lal murder trial.
The producer sought intervention against the high court’s order that temporarily halted the movie’s release following complaints that it portrayed the Muslim community in a negative light. Another petition was filed by Javed to safeguard his right to a fair trial if the movie was released.
Legal Battle Unfolds
The high court initially stayed the movie pending a review by the Centre. The film was eventually cleared for release with additional edits after revision. At a recent hearing, the producer informed the court that the necessary edits had been made, while Javed moved a fresh petition in the high court.
Lawyer Kapil Sibal, representing the complainant, raised concerns against the movie’s release and urged the court to halt it, but the court deferred the decision, directing parties to the high court for further action.
Public Sentiment
Another petition was filed questioning the movie’s portrayal and its impact on community sentiments. Arguments were presented challenging the need for censorship based on individual opinions. The court acknowledged the sensitive nature of the case and referred it to the high court for deliberation.
The court also addressed the comparison with past cases and emphasized the importance of judicial review in such matters.
The expert panel’s certification of the movie’s content was highlighted as a factor of consideration in the court’s decision-making process.
Legal Standoff Continues
The movie producer emphasized compliance with legal requirements, while the defense argued against the release, citing ongoing legal proceedings related to the murder trial.
As the legal battle ensues, the fate of the controversial movie remains uncertain, awaiting further hearings and decisions by the competent authorities.
For more details, you can read the full article here.