India on Friday strongly condemned the actions of pro-Khalistani extremists who disrupted the screening of Kangana Ranaut’s political drama Emergency in cinemas across the UK. Calling for accountability, New Delhi emphasized that freedom of speech and expression should not be applied selectively and urged the UK government to take appropriate action against those responsible.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the issue during a weekly press briefing, stating: “We’ve seen several reports of the film Emergency being obstructed in multiple cinemas. Freedom of speech and expression cannot be applied selectively, and those obstructing it must be held accountable. We hope the UK side will take appropriate action against those responsible.”
Jaiswal added that the Indian High Commission in London is actively engaging with the local Indian community to ensure their safety and welfare amidst the protests.
Protests Disrupt Screenings of ‘Emergency’
The disruptions, led by pro-Khalistani protesters, targeted cinemas such as one in Harrow, northwest London, during the film’s opening weekend. Videos shared on social media by community organization Insight UK showed protesters interrupting screenings, forcing some cinema owners to pull down the film.
British MP Bob Blackman spoke out in support of the movie’s right to be screened, referring to the protesters as “masked Khalistani terrorists.” In a video shared by Ranaut, Blackman stated, “I don’t want to comment on the content or quality of the film, but I do defend the right of others to be able to view it.”
Controversy Around ‘Emergency’
Directed by Kangana Ranaut, Emergency chronicles the 21-month period of Emergency imposed in India from 1975 to 1977 under then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The film has been met with protests, particularly from Sikh groups, over allegations that it misrepresents their community.
In India, Sikh organizations have called for the movie to be banned, citing concerns about distorted facts. The film has already been banned in Punjab, further fueling tensions. Ranaut expressed her disappointment on social media, saying, “I am pained that my movie was not released in Punjab, a state where my films have always performed the best.”
Kangana Ranaut Responds
Ranaut took to social media to thank Bob Blackman for his support, questioning the silence of Indian politicians and feminists on the matter. She also voiced her disappointment regarding the lack of acceptance in Punjab and among some Sikhs abroad.
Apart from Ranaut, Emergency stars Shreyas Talpade, Anupam Kher, and Milind Soman in pivotal roles. The film, which released in cinemas on January 17, reportedly earned Rs 12.26 crore in its opening weekend, marking an “impressive” start at the box office according to the filmmakers.
Freedom of Expression in Question
The disruptions have reignited debates on freedom of speech and the role of governments in protecting artistic expression. India’s call for accountability signals the country’s firm stance against any attempts to stifle the right to view or produce controversial content.
