Bollywood actress and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut is in the spotlight due to a significant delay in the release of her film, Emergency. Originally scheduled to hit theatres on September 6, 2026, the film’s release is now uncertain due to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) withholding its certification.
Court Orders CBFC to Clarify Certification Status
The Jabalpur High Court has stepped into the fray, issuing a notice to the Central Government and the CBFC. This comes after a public interest litigation (PIL) was filed challenging the film. The court, led by Chief Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva and Judge Vinay Saraf, has demanded a clear response from the CBFC on whether the film has received certification.
Punjab and Haryana High Court’s Stance
The controversy around Emergency also reached the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The Centre had earlier informed this court that the film was yet to be certified. Judge Sachdeva pointed out that there might be required changes, such as editing or deleting scenes, which could impact the film’s release.
Controversy Over Film Content
The PIL, filed by Jabalpur Sikh Sangat and Guru Singh Sabha Indore, claims that the film’s trailer portrays Amritdhari Sikhs in a negative light, including scenes depicting violence and provocative dialogues. Advocate Narendra Pal Singh Rupra, representing the petitioners, argued that the film’s portrayal could lead to communal tensions and impact the Sikh community’s reputation.
Rupra emphasized that Sikh identity is deeply intertwined with Indian culture and military service, making the film’s alleged depiction particularly offensive. He highlighted that the Sikh community has historically been supportive and helpful, especially during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Court’s Response and Assurances
The court has instructed that notices be served to all relevant parties, including the filmmakers. The matter has been scheduled for an urgent hearing. In response to similar concerns, the Centre assured the Punjab and Haryana High Court that the CBFC would follow all guidelines to avoid offending any community. The court also noted that, post-certification, any grievances could be reviewed by the CBFC’s Revising Committee.
Kangana Ranaut’s Reaction
Kangana Ranaut has expressed her frustration publicly, describing the situation as deeply disappointing and unjust. She argued that censorship seems to target films depicting historical facts while allowing content with violence and nudity to pass. Ranaut has vowed to fight for the film’s release without cuts, expressing her determination to overcome the setback imposed by the CBFC.
Political and Public Reaction
The Shiromani Akali Dal has also voiced its concerns, sending a legal notice to the CBFC demanding a ban on the film. The party alleges that Emergency could incite communal tensions and spread misinformation, further fueling the controversy surrounding the film.
As the legal and political battles continue, the future of Emergency remains uncertain. The film’s fate depends on the resolution of these issues and the CBFC’s final decision.
