SC refuses to interfere with release MP SAYS WILL NOT RELEASE PADMAVATI

The Supreme Court on Monday refused to interfere with the release of the film Padmavati at this stage pointing out that the Central Board of Film Certification is yet to grant certification for the film.

A three-judge bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A.M. Kanwilkar and D.Y. Chandrachud dismissed a public interest writ petition seeking a ban on the release of the film till the objectionable portions are deleted.

The bench said, “During the course of hearing it transpires that Padmavati has not yet received certification from CBFC. Our (court) interference will tantamount to prejudging the matter. We do not intend to do so. Needless to say that the admitted pleadings are premature.”

Taking note of submissions of senior counsel Harish Salve, appearing for the producer and director of the film that the petition contained averments, which are objectionable, the bench ordered these portions to be struck off from the petition. The bench made it clear that the struck off portions should not be used in any manner.

Earlier, petitioner advocate M.L. Sharma submitted that though the Censor Board had not issued certification, songs in the film projecting Queen Padmavati as a dancer of palace, romancing with Muslim invader had been released across the world and are freely available.

He contended that this was nothing but character assassination of legend queen Padmavati.

The CJI said if the Censor Board takes a decision, there is the appellate tribunal for appeal. “If it comes to us we will examine the issue. If necessary we will watch the film.” The bench then dismissed the petition.