The Delhi High Court on Wednesday observed that the censor board should establish guidelines for spy movies, responding to a public interest litigation filed by a serving Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel. The petition raised concerns over the Ranveer Singh-starrer 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge', alleging that it reveals tactical and sensitive information about the country's intelligence and defense operations. The petitioner sought the framing of a 'spy movies protocol' to prevent such disclosures.
Court's Observations and Directions
A bench comprising Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia remarked, "The concerns raised by the petitioner need to be considered and addressed appropriately." The court noted that while films are meant for entertainment, they do have an impact on viewers. The bench disposed of the PIL with a direction to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to treat the writ petition as a representation and take an appropriate decision on the issues raised. The authorities were also asked to communicate their decision and any corrective measures taken to the petitioner.
Allegations in the PIL
The PIL contended that the film violates the Official Secrets Act by depicting tactical operations, sensitive locations, and agents in depth. It claimed that some scenes reveal information not in the interest of national security. The petitioner argued that actions and characters modeled after high-ranking officials and martyred servicemen are so explicit that they are detrimental to the country's interests. Additionally, certain successful military operations are recalled in the movie, which the petitioner found objectionable.
The petition also objected to the film using "classified protocols" in certain scenes and depicting "deep cover identities." The petitioner claimed that the movie has "directly compromised the safety of our on-field undercover agents" and led to local authorities in Karachi being on "spy alert." The PIL sought the framing of a protocol to prevent the showcasing of methods used by the country's agents and the revocation of the certification granted to the movie.
Background
The film 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge' stars Ranveer Singh and has been a subject of controversy since its release. The petitioner, a serving SSB personnel, filed the PIL expressing concerns over the potential security risks posed by the film's content. The court's intervention highlights the need for a balanced approach between creative expression and national security.
