The Supreme Court declined to hear a writ petition challenging the certification given by the CBFC to the film ‘Hamare Baarah’. The film, directed by Kamal Chandra and starring Annu Kapoor, was subject to controversy over its portrayal of Muslim women and interpretation of religious texts.
Supreme Court’s Decision
The vacation bench of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice S.V.N. Bhatti refused to entertain the petition directly challenging the CBFC’s certification. They suggested that the petitioner should first appeal the Bombay High Court’s decision, which allowed the film’s release with modifications.
Bombay High Court’s Order
Earlier, the Bombay High Court had permitted the release of the film ‘Hamare Baarah’ after ordering certain edits to scenes deemed objectionable. The court’s decision followed a petition under Article 32 of the Constitution claiming misrepresentation of Islamic teachings regarding women’s rights and community responsibility.
Petition Allegations
The petition alleged that the film misinterprets Quranic verses and portrays Muslim women unfairly, suggesting they are treated as chattels by male members of the community. This interpretation sparked criticism from Muslim intellectuals and advocates who viewed it as offensive and misleading.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the Supreme Court allowed the withdrawal of the writ petition with the option to file a special leave petition challenging the Bombay High Court’s decision.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What was the Supreme Court’s response to the writ petition regarding ‘Hamare Baarah’ film?
- A) Accepted the petition and ordered a review of the film’s certification.
- B) Declined to hear the petition directly on its merits.
- C) Directed immediate revocation of the film’s certification.
- D) None of the above.
- Answer: B) Declined to hear the petition directly on its merits.
- What action did the Bombay High Court take regarding the film ‘Hamare Baarah’?
- A) Ordered a ban on its release across India.
- B) Allowed its release with certain modifications to objectionable content.
- C) Recommended a re-censorship process by the CBFC.
- D) None of the above.
- Answer: B) Allowed its release with certain modifications to objectionable content.
- What was the primary allegation against the film in the petition filed under Article 32?
- A) Misinterpretation of historical events.
- B) Misrepresentation of Quranic verses concerning women’s rights.
- C) Plagiarism of script from another film.
- D) None of the above.
- Answer: B) Misrepresentation of Quranic verses concerning women’s rights.
- Who directed the film ‘Hamare Baarah’ and who starred in it?
- A) Directed by Annu Kapoor; starring Kamal Chandra.
- B) Directed by Kamal Chandra; starring Annu Kapoor.
- C) Directed by Manoj Joshi; starring Aditi Bhatpahri.
- D) Directed by Ashwini Kalsekar; starring Parth Samthaan.
- Answer: B) Directed by Kamal Chandra; starring Annu Kapoor.