In an unsurprising display of hyper-vigilant sensitivity, the Supreme Court of India has once again demonstrated its unparalleled dedication to ensuring nothing offends the delicate sensibilities of a select few. Just one day before the scheduled release of the movie Hamare Baarah, the court has nobly swooped in to halt its release. The esteemed vacation bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, in their infinite wisdom, have decreed that the movie shall remain unseen by the masses until the Bombay High Court wraps up its review.
This bold move was in response to an urgent plea challenging the Bombay HC’s earlier decision to allow the film’s release. Clearly, this vacation bench knows where to draw the line when it comes to offensive content—especially when it offends Muslim groups. It appears the court’s valiant efforts to shield the public from potentially derogatory material knows no bounds.
The judges, after the arduous task of watching the teaser on YouTube, quickly discerned its objectionable nature. Justice Mehta noted the teaser’s offensive content, while Justice Nath echoed the sentiment, justifying the High Court’s interim order. One might marvel at their swift action, especially given their vacation status. Who says justice takes a break?
The original plea, spearheaded by Azhar Basha Tamboli, sought to revoke the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC)’s approval of the film. According to Tamboli, the film grossly violated the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and had the potential to tarnish the image of the Islamic faith and Muslim women. It’s touching to see such fervent guardianship over religious sentiments, a commitment that is, without doubt, applied universally across all cases of offense. Right?
The CBFC, predictably, defended its certification, asserting that all offensive scenes and dialogues had been duly removed. They even clarified that the controversial trailers weren’t certified. But, why let such trivial details hinder the cause of preventing potential outrage?
The Bombay High Court had initially shown some sense by allowing the film’s release after a review committee failed to deliver a timely verdict. They even made a rational point about the impracticality of one individual’s petition affecting a film release in a country of 130 crore citizens. How pedestrian of them! Thankfully, the Supreme Court’s vacation bench knows better.
It’s heartwarming to witness the apex court prioritizing this issue. After all, there’s nothing quite as pressing as a film teaser potentially offending someone’s sentiments. Forget about the numerous other pending cases affecting the lives of countless citizens. Who cares about those when there’s a movie teaser to scrutinize?
While the film’s producers pleaded for a swift resolution, the Supreme Court graciously declined their request. Why rush when there’s a chance to bask in the glory of protecting sensibilities? One can only hope that this level of meticulous care and consideration is equally applied across all cases, regardless of who might be offended.
Hats off to the vacation bench for their tireless efforts in safeguarding us from the horrors of potentially offensive content. Their keen eye for injustice, especially when it comes to specific religious sentiments, is truly commendable. It’s comforting to know that in the grand scheme of things, the feelings of a few hold such significant sway over the nation’s judicial priorities.