नवीनतम
SC slams Neeraj Pandey over title 'Ghooskhor Pandat'
NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The Supreme Court on Thursday strongly cautioned filmmaker Neeraj Pandey over the title of his film ‘Ghooskhor Pandat’, observing that freedom of expression cannot be used to demean or stigmatise any section of society.
The apex court was hearing a petition seeking a stay on the release of the Manoj Bajpayee-starrer film, which is slated for release on the OTT platform Netflix.
A bench comprising Justices B V Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan issued notices to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), and Neeraj Pandey on a public interest litigation challenging the film.
Questioning the appropriateness of the title, the bench said that creative freedom does not grant licence to insult or stereotype communities. The court remarked that such portrayal could affect public order and morality, adding that it would not permit the film’s release unless a revised title was disclosed.
The judges further directed Pandey to file an affidavit affirming that the film does not denigrate any section of society.
During the proceedings, counsel representing the filmmaker informed the court that an alternative title was under consideration but had not yet been finalised. The counsel assured the bench that the revised title would avoid any potential offence or controversy.
The court noted that while the right to free speech under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution is respected, it is subject to reasonable restrictions. The bench emphasised the constitutional value of fraternity, stating that divisive or derogatory depictions aggravate existing social fissures.
Observing that responsible conduct is expected from filmmakers and public communicators, the court said that creative expression should not contribute to social unrest or undermine harmony in society.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on February 19.
The petition alleges that the film promotes caste- and religion-based stereotyping and poses a threat to communal harmony, public order, and constitutional principles.
Produced by Neeraj Pandey, ‘Ghooskhor Pandat’ was recently announced by Netflix at an event in Mumbai. Apart from Manoj Bajpayee, the film also features Nushrat Bharuccha, Saqib Saleem, Akshay Oberoi and Divya Dutta.
The plea was filed by Atul Mishra, National Organisation Secretary of the Brahman Samaj of India, who contended that the film’s title and narrative are prima facie offensive and portray the Brahmin community in a derogatory manner.
The petitioner objected to the use of the term “Pandat”, which is associated with caste and religious identity, alongside “Ghooskhor”, a word implying corruption and bribery.
Earlier this week, Netflix India informed the Delhi High Court that the producers had decided to rename the film. The High Court recorded that the change was being made to better reflect the film’s narrative and intent in light of concerns raised over the original title.
