The Delhi High Court has intervened in a sensitive case involving an upcoming film and the family of a martyred soldier. On Monday, the court instructed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to formally examine the objections raised by the parents of Major Mohit Sharma before granting any certificate to the movie ‘Dhurandhar’, which is scheduled for release on December 5.
Court's Directive to the Censor Board
Justice Sachin Datta, presiding over the case, disposed of the petition filed by the officer's family with a clear direction. The bench ordered the CBFC to consider all aspects of the matter, including the specific concerns raised by the petitioners. The court further stated that if the CBFC deems it necessary, it should refer the matter to the Indian Army for its views and necessary approvals. Justice Datta emphasized that this exercise must be completed by the CBFC as quickly as possible.
Family's Grievance and Filmmakers' Stance
The parents of Major Mohit Sharma, who was killed in action during a counter-terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir in 2009, had approached the court seeking a stay on the film's release. They contended that the movie appears to be directly inspired by the life of the decorated officer and was produced without seeking consent from the family or the Indian Army.
During the hearing, the counsel representing the CBFC informed the court that the board has not yet certified the film. The lawyers for the film's producers argued that 'Dhurandhar' is not a biopic but a work of fiction and is not based on Major Sharma's life. This claim forms the core of the dispute that the CBFC must now navigate.
Balancing Creative Expression and Respect
This case highlights the ongoing tension between cinematic creative freedom and the ethical duty to respect the sentiments of individuals and families whose real-life stories may be depicted or referenced. The court's order does not outright block the film but mandates a thorough review process. The outcome now hinges on the CBFC's assessment, which could include consultations with the Indian Army, a key stakeholder in matters involving the portrayal of its personnel and operations. The directive ensures that the family's plea for consideration is heard at the regulatory level before the film reaches the public.
