Protests disrupt Kangana Ranaut’s Film ‘Emergency’ in UK; MEA responds
PTC Web Desk: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is actively engaging with the authorities in the United Kingdom following reports of disruptions at screenings of Kangana Ranaut’s film 'Emergency'. The movie, which portrays the controversial period of the Emergency declared by former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975, has faced resistance from certain groups in the UK.
“We have received reports of disruptions during the screening of Emergency at several theatres in the UK. This issue has been taken up with British authorities. We consistently emphasise that freedom of speech and expression cannot be selectively applied,” the MEA stated.
The ministry further underscored the need to hold those obstructing the film accountable. “We hope the UK government takes appropriate measures against the perpetrators. Our High Commission in London remains in touch with community members to ensure their safety,” it added.
The protests reportedly intensified in northwest London, where masked miscreants identified as “Khalistani terrorists” stormed a cinema screening the film. Bob Blackman, a Conservative MP, highlighted the incident, stating, “On Sunday, many of my constituents had gathered at Harrow Vue cinema to watch 'Emergency'. However, masked miscreants burst in after 30 to 40 minutes, threatening the audience and forcing the screening to halt.”
Similar disruptions were reported in Wolverhampton, Birmingham, and Manchester, prompting at least two cinema chains to withdraw the film from their schedules.
Blackman expressed his dismay over the incident, defending the audience's right to view the film without interference. “The movie is controversial, and I am not commenting on its content or quality, but my constituents and others have the right to make their own decision about it,” he said.
According to reports, several British Sikh organisations, including the Sikh Press Association, have voiced strong objections to 'Emergency', calling it an “anti-Sikh” film. These groups alleged that the movie misrepresents the Sikh community and distorts historical events. Their protests have led to significant disruptions in the screening of the movie across the UK.
Kangana Ranaut, one of the producers of the film, faced challenges during the production and release process in India as well. The film underwent extensive scrutiny from the Censor Board, with objections raised by Sikh organisations over its portrayal of events during the Emergency.
- With inputs from agencies
