SC clears decks for release of 'Nanak Shah Fakir' movie
The Supreme Court today cleared the decks for an all-India release of the controversial movie "Nanak Shah Fakir" on April 13. The top court criticized the apex Sikh body Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) for putting restrictions on the release of the movie, based on the life and teachings of the first Sikh guru, Guru Nanak Dev. Here are more details.
No one can impede movie's release after CBFC cleared it
An SC bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices AM Khanwilkar and DY Chandrachud said once the statutory body like the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has cleared the movie, no individual has the right to impede its release. The bench asked all the states to maintain law and order and ensure smooth screening of the film.
PIL was filed by retired Naval officer and movie's producer
The petition was filed by Harinder S Sikka, a retired Naval officer and the producer of the film. He approached SC seeking protection of the fundamental right of speech and expression, which he alleged, was being curtailed by Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee having vested interests in scuttling the release of the movie. The CBFC had cleared the movie on March 28.
