Film misrepresents Bhindranwale, distorts history’: Sikh community objects to Emergency, seeks corrections

Pune: THE Sikh community in Pune is angry. WHY ? Because they have alleged that the movie “Emergency” seeks to defame them objected to the upcoming film, Emergency, directed by Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut, expressing “deep concerns about its contents, particularly the portrayal of historical Sikh figures and the community at large.”

In a letter to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), Mumbai, Raj Singh, founder of Sikh Helpline, said, “I am writing to you on behalf of the Sikh community, echoing the concerns raised by the Jabalpur Sikh Sangat regarding the upcoming film Emergency, directed by Ms. Kangana Ranaut.”

“We have reviewed the released trailer and promotional material, and we find the depiction of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale highly offensive and factually inaccurate. The film suggests a narrative where Bhindranwale is shown colluding with former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, allegedly offering support for Congress in exchange for a separate Sikh state. This portrayal is not only historically misleading but also deeply hurtful to the sentiments of the Sikh community,” states the letter.

These inaccuracies, said the foundation, not only misrepresent the faith but also portray a particular community in a negative light, leading to potential misunderstandings and fostering a divisive narrative.

“Specific scenes in the film are deeply concerning, as they are either inaccurate or harmful. I believe that such portrayals, whether intentional or unintentional, have a significant impact on society, especially when they are widely disseminated through cinema,” Singh said.

The letter said, “Freedom of expression is vital, but it must be balanced with a sense of responsibility towards all communities and faiths. When a film portrays any religion inaccurately or with a biased narrative, it not only hurts the followers but also undermines the principles of mutual respect and harmony.”

“The matter should be investigated thoroughly. The content of the film should be reviewed in consultation with experts from the Sikh community to ensure accuracy. Appropriate corrective measures, such as editing or censoring content that is offensive and inaccurate should be taken. It should be ensured future films undergo more rigorous scrutiny to avoid similar instances,” said Singh in the letter.

The letter added, “The film misrepresents Bhindranwale, suggesting he was involved in negotiations with Indira Gandhi for political gain. This distorts history and promotes a narrative that may provoke misunderstandings. The film risks reinforcing negative stereotypes of Sikhs by implying their leaders were involved in separatist negotiations for political advantage. Such portrayals are damaging to the community’s reputation.”

Stating that it hopes the CBFC will uphold its responsibility to ensure fair and accurate portrayal of all communities in Indian cinema, the Foundation demanded prompt action and a positive response “in the interest of maintaining peace, harmony, and respect for all religions in our diverse society.”