Akal Takht and SGPC Demand Ban on 'Emergency' Film Over Sikh Defamation

New Delhi: The forthcoming film ‘Emergency’, directed by and starring Kangana Ranaut on a demand for an immediate ban by The Akal Takht, the highest temporal authority for Sikhs, and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC). These Sikh organizations have expressed strong objections, accusing the film of attempting to “character assassinate” the Sikh community.

In a recent press conference, SGPC chief Harjinder Singh Dhami articulated the committee’s concerns, asserting that the film’s portrayal of Sikhs is deeply offensive and distorts historical facts. Dhami has called for an urgent ban on the film and has also demanded the filing of a First Information Report (FIR) against Kangana Ranaut, who is the driving force behind the project as its writer, director, producer, and lead actor.

‘Emergency’ is set to explore the period of the 1975-1977 Emergency in India, imposed by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, a time fraught with political upheaval and widespread civil liberties curtailment. However, the film has already become a flashpoint of controversy, particularly among Sikh leaders who believe it misrepresents their community and its historical role during that era.

The Akal Takht and SGPC have underscored the importance of accurate and respectful portrayals of Sikh history in media, warning that films like ‘Emergency’ could contribute to harmful stereotypes and misunderstandings. They insist that such depictions can erode the dignity and respect of the Sikh community.

As the film’s release date draws nearer, the controversy is likely to escalate, with Sikh organizations continuing their efforts to prevent the film from reaching audiences unless significant revisions are made to address their concerns. The situation underscores the ongoing tension between artistic freedom and cultural sensitivity in Indian cinema.