SGPC seeks ban on Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’ film in Punjab for 'misrepresentation of Sikhs'

PTC Web Desk: The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has called for a ban on the release of Kangana Ranaut's upcoming film 'Emergency' in Punjab, alleging that it misrepresents Sikhs and distorts historical facts. The movie, produced by BJP MP and actress Kangana Ranaut, is set to release on January 17, after receiving clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

SGPC president Advocate Harjinder Singh Dhami has written to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, urging the government to prevent the film’s release. He warned that the movie 'Emergency' could provoke anger and unrest among the Sikh community. In the letter, Dhami said it was the government's responsibility to maintain peace and prevent any attempts to tarnish Sikh heritage.

The SGPC said it had earlier raised objections with the Punjab Chief Secretary in September 2024. Despite sending an official resolution against the movie, the government has yet to take any action.

SGPC members, including Gurcharan Singh Grewal, expressed apprehensions about the lack of transparency in the film’s content. While some scenes were reportedly deleted following CBFC intervention, the SGPC claims no clarity on what changes were made. They fear the movie could disrupt the social harmony in Punjab.

The SGPC alleged that the film portrayed Sikhs in a negative light, particularly in relation to the events of 1984, including the military attack on sacred Sikh sites such as Sri Harmandir Sahib and Sri Akal Takht Sahib. The film also allegedly depicts the Sikh genocide and related historical figures, such as Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, in a distorted manner.

The SGPC accused the film of promoting an anti-Sikh agenda and inciting hatred against the Sikh community domestically and internationally.

The film, originally scheduled for release on September 6, 2024, faced delays due to objections from Sikh organisations and independent MP Sarabjit Singh Khalsa. Khalsa, the son of Beant Singh, one of the assassins of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, raised concerns about scenes in the trailer that allegedly portrayed Sikhs as separatists or extremists.

Following these objections, the CBFC withheld certification and demanded significant edits, including the deletion of three scenes and 10 content modifications. Only after these changes was the film cleared for release.

The SGPC has warned that if the film is released in Punjab, it will lead to protests at the state level. The committee has vowed to oppose the movie vigorously to safeguard the dignity and history of the Sikh community.