Mohanlal’s ‘Empuraan’ Ignites Political Debate in Kerala

Congress Blames BJP for Intolerance

Mohanlal’s upcoming film, ‘Empuraan’, has sparked political controversy in Kerala. The Congress party alleges that the BJP is displaying intolerance towards the movie due to the harsh criticism it has received on right-wing social media platforms.

BJP’s Silence and Activists’ Criticism

Although the debate rages on, BJP functionaries in the state have remained silent about the Prithviraj-directed film. However, party and Sangh Parivar activists continue to criticize it.

Movie’s Critique of Right-Wing Politics and Gujarat Riots Reference

The film has become a hot topic because of its critique of right-wing politics and its subtle reference to the Gujarat riots.

• AICC general secretary K C Venugopal claimed that the BJP’s criticism of the movie was a manifestation of the Sangh Parivar’s intolerance.
• Venugopal noted that movies like ‘The Accidental Prime Minister’ and ‘Emergency’ were critical of the Congress, but the BJP welcomed them.
• He urged the BJP to consider whether it was fair to show intolerance only when they were criticized.

Protest Against the Movie and SC Verdict

Venugopal also mentioned the recent Supreme Court ruling that quashed an FIR filed by the Gujarat Police against Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi for allegedly posting an edited video of a provocative song. He recalled the SC’s observation that even if many people disliked the views expressed by someone, their right to express those views must be respected and protected.

Kerala Education Minister Opposes Re-Censoring the Film

Kerala education minister V Sivankutty spoke out against the reported plan to re-censor the film. He stated that the Gujarat riot and Godhra were part of Indian history and that future generations would learn about them regardless of any attempts to censor them. Sivankutty emphasized that freedom of expression is the foundation of democracy.

Junior Minority Affairs Minister George Kurian’s Response

Junior minority affairs minister George Kurian said he had not yet watched the movie but intended to do so.

Right-Wing Groups Demand Revoking of Mohanlal’s Lt Col Rank

Some right-wing groups have called for the revocation of Mohanlal’s Lt Col rank due to the controversial content in the movie.