Makers of 'The Kerala Story' moved to the Supreme Court on Tuesday against the decision of West Bengal government to ban the film in the state.
'The Kerala Story' has been banned from screenings in West Bengal citing law and order threats. In Tamil Nadu, theatre owners have refused to screen the film owing to fear of protests and damage to property.
'The Kerala Story' has resulted into a massive political uproar in the country as several leaders accused the film of trying to incite hate against a particular community.
'The Kerala Story' makers move SC
The makers of 'The Kerala Story' had stated on Monday that if the government and authorities do not help them against the ban on their film, then they will be forced to knock the doors of the Supreme Court.
On Tuesday, the makers moved a plea in the apex court against West Bengal's decision. Through the plea, they also asked the Tamil Nadu government to provide protection to the theatre owners in the state against miscreants so that they agree to screen the film in their property.
The Producers Guild of India too issued a strongly-worded statement against the film's ban in West Bengal. "As emphasized by us on several occasions in the past, film releases are regulated by CBFC and any film that complies with this statutory requirement should face no further hurdles in having the paying public decide on its fate. Of course, the audience can choose to watch or ignore any film but that is a choice that should be theirs to make, not one that is imposed on them by any party other than CBFC," a part of the statement read.
About 'The Kerala Story'
'The Kerala Story' is said to be based on true events wherein three young women from Kerala were tricked into joining the ISIS in Iraq and Syria through love jihad.
'The Kerala Story' stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani and Sonia Balani in lead roles. It has been directed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah.
The film released in theatres on May 5 and despite the protests, it has been witnessing a massive footfall. Theatres in major film circuits across the country have been forced to add extra late night shows to meet the demand.
'The Kerala Story' has also been declared tax-free in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
