A recent petition has highlighted serious worries about the release of the film Udaipur Files, claiming it could spark communal unrest and disturb public peace. The petitioner argues that the movie unfairly targets an entire religious community, spreading hatred and damaging the country’s religious harmony. This, they say, violates fundamental rights under Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the Constitution, which protect equality, non-discrimination, and the right to life with dignity and security.
Legal provisions cited against the film’s release
The petition points to Section 5B of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, which forbids certification of any film that harms public order, decency, or morality, or encourages crimes. Further, the 1991 Guidelines for Certification of Films specifically prohibit visuals or dialogues that promote communal hatred, obscurantism, anti-scientific, or anti-national ideas. The petitioner claims Udaipur Files breaches these rules by inciting divisions.
Film accused of violating constitutional morality
The petition further argues that the film Udaipur Files misuses the freedom of expression to weaken India’s constitutional commitment to being pluralistic, inclusive, and secular. Instead of uniting, it allegedly spreads narratives that deepen social and religious divides. It states, “Artistic expression, no matter how evocative, cannot be allowed to destroy fraternity and the ethical foundations of our nation enshrined in the Constitution.”
Call for urgent judicial action
By reviving and amplifying content that has previously triggered communal conflicts, the film is said to threaten the nation’s secular spirit and social harmony. The petition urges the courts to step in quickly to prevent any harm caused by the movie’s release.
