The film Udaipur Files: Kanhaiya Lal Tailor Murder has landed in legal trouble after multiple petitions sought a stay on its July 11 release. The movie portrays the 2022 killing of tailor Kanhaiya Lal in Udaipur.
On Wednesday, the Delhi High Court instructed the producers to urgently arrange a private screening for all lawyers involved. A division bench of Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Anish Dayal directed counsel for the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the petitioners to watch the film and return on Thursday with their concerns.
One of the petitions, filed by Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind President Maulana Arshad Madani, demands a ban, arguing that the movie insults Prophet Muhammad and defames Muslims. The group cited the trailer’s inclusion of controversial remarks by former BJP leader Nupur Sharma, claiming it had already sparked widespread unrest and harmed India’s international ties.
However, Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, representing the CBFC and the government, maintained that all objectionable scenes were removed.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the petitioners, acknowledged the filmmakers’ right to free expression but asserted that the film’s overall message incites violence.
The court advised Mr. Sibal to watch the film with Mr. Sharma, examine the edits, and report back.
Separately, Mohammed Jawed, an accused in the murder case, approached the Supreme Court, arguing that releasing the film could prejudice the ongoing trial. The court noted that his plea should be taken up once the vacation ends.