EC awaiting BJP's reply to Oppn's plea against PM-biopic release
What's the story
Before taking a call on whether to allow the release of a biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Election Commission is awaiting the BJP's reply to an opposition parties' plea to prevent its screening amid the ongoing poll process.
The producers of the film, which will release on April-5, have already replied to the EC notice on the oppositions' complaint against the film.
Details
'Once response from BJP is received, EC will take decision'
"Once the response from the BJP general secretary is received, the Election Commission will take a decision," said a senior poll panel official yesterday night.
Since the complaint to the EC mentioned BJP in it, its copy was sent to the party for its reply.
The official also referred to at least two Supreme Court rulings about movies.
SC ruling
SC had earlier directed screening of 'Bhobishyoter Bhoot' without obstruction
In one of the rulings, the SC had directed the WB government to ensure that satirical film Bhobishyoter Bhoot, which was critical of the state CM, is screened without obstruction.
The model code of conduct, however, wasn't in force at that time, said the official.
"We also have to see the latest Delhi High court ruling over biopic screening," he said.
Comment
Model code is silent on films, said the official
"Delhi HC ruling said the biopic screening should be decided by the EC," said the official, adding the model code is silent on films and it was a grey area.
He said EC has to keep the court verdicts in mind.
In their complaint, the opposition parties alleged that the film violates the model code and would act like an advertisement for the BJP.