India expresses concern after protests against ‘Emergency’ film in UK

The Union Ministry of External Affairs on Friday stated that India hopes those involved in protests against the screening of the Hindi-language film Emergency in theatres of the United Kingdom would be held accountable.

The film, starring actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut, is based on the Emergency imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s government in 1975.

Addressing a press briefing, ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India had consistently raised concerns with the United Kingdom government about “incidents of violent protest and intimidation by anti-India elements”.

Jaiswal said that the freedom of speech and expression cannot be applied selectively and added that those obstructing the screening of the film should be held accountable. “We hope that the UK side will take appropriate action against those responsible,” he added.

#WATCH | Delhi: MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, “We have also seen several reports on how the film, ‘Emergency’, which was being screened in several halls was being obstructed. We consistently raise concerns with the UK Government regarding incidents of violent protest and… pic.twitter.com/UULvcx3QLP

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2025

Ranaut, a Bharatiya Janata Party MP from Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi, is the writer and director of the film as well, besides having co-produced it through her company Manikarnika Films.

The film was initially scheduled for release on September 6. However, it was finally released on January 17.

The delay…

Read more