The Supreme Court has declined to entertain petitions seeking a ban on the release of the film Udaipur Files, which is based on the 2022 murder of tailor Kanhaiya Lal in Udaipur, Rajasthan. The court advised petitioners to approach the appropriate lower court for any legal remedy, stating that the film's release should not be stalled.
Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia remarked that the concerned court is the right forum to raise such objections and allowed the film’s release to proceed as scheduled. The film is set to release on July 11, with its trailer having been launched on July 4.
Petitioners argued that the movie presents only one side of the story, particularly that of the prosecution. They claimed that this portrayal could provoke communal tensions, especially with references to Nupur Sharma’s controversial remarks.
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court is also hearing a separate petition filed by Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, which challenges the film's certification. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal is representing the petitioners. During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, representing the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), informed the court that several controversial scenes had already been removed.
The High Court directed the film’s producer to screen the movie for Kapil Sibal, who will provide his feedback on the remaining content in court. Jamiat alleges that the film includes Nupur Sharma’s statements, which could incite communal disharmony.
Kanhaiya Lal was murdered in June 2022 by Mohammad Riyaz Attari and Gaus Mohammad, who attacked him in his shop after he had expressed support for Nupur Sharma’s comments. The brutal killing had sparked nationwide outrage.
Director Bharat S. Srinet has defended the film, claiming it contains nothing objectionable. He stated that the CBFC had made 130 cuts before granting an 'A' certificate. According to him, the film's aim is to expose the extremist mindset behind the killing. He also urged critics to watch the film before judging it, as it might clear up misunderstandings.
