Supreme Court Gives Green Signal to ‘Udaipur Files’: Film to Release on July 11 Despite Controversy

The Supreme Court has dismissed a plea seeking a ban on the release of the controversial film Udaipur Files, which is based on the brutal murder of tailor Kanhaiya Lal in Udaipur. The petition, filed by Mohammad Javed—accused in the case—urged the court to halt the release until the trial concludes, arguing that it could affect his right to a fair trial.

A bench comprising Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia and Justice J.B. Pardiwala conducted an urgent hearing on Tuesday and ruled that the film should be allowed to release. However, the bench also stated that the matter will be further heard on July 14.

Censor Board Cuts 150 Scenes from the Film

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has reportedly cut 150 scenes from Udaipur Files. Despite these cuts, concerns remain about the film’s content, which some argue could incite communal tensions.

Background: Why the Film Is Controversial?

Udaipur Files revolves around the real-life murder of tailor Kanhaiya Lal, who was killed on June 28, 2022, by Mohammad Riyaz Attari and Ghaus Mohammad. He had allegedly shared an anti-Islam post on social media. The incident shocked the nation due to its brutal nature.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) took over the case and filed a charge sheet against 11 accused, including:

• Riyaz Attari
  
• Ghaus Mohammad
  
• Mohammad Javed
  
• Mohsin
  
• Asif
  
• Mohammad Mohsin
  
• Waseem Ali
  
• Farhad Mohammad Sheikh alias Babla
  
• Muslim Mohammad
  

Additionally, Salman and Abu Ibrahim—residents of Karachi, Pakistan—have been declared absconders.

Pakistan Connection and Terror Charges

The NIA, after taking charge on June 29, 2022, classified the murder as a terrorist act under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The investigation revealed alleged links between the accused and terror outfits operating out of Pakistan.

The charge sheet, filed on December 22, 2022, includes charges of murder, criminal conspiracy, inciting religious hatred, and violations under UAPA.

Legal Petitions Filed Across India

Apart from the Supreme Court plea, Maulana Arshad Madani—head of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind and scholar from Darul Uloom Deoband—also filed a petition in the Delhi High Court, seeking a ban on the film. He argued that certain dialogues and visuals in the film could provoke communal unrest.

In Varanasi, Mufti Maulana Abdul Batin Nomani, secretary of Anjuman Intezamia Masjid, has written to the DM and Police Commissioner demanding a ban on the film’s release in the city.

Additional Controversial Elements in the Film

The trailer of Udaipur Files features BJP’s former spokesperson Nupur Sharma and her controversial statement that led to her suspension from the party. It also includes scenes related to the Gyanvapi Mosque survey and the discovery of the alleged ‘Shivling’, adding more fuel to the film’s polarizing narrative.