Supreme Court Defers Hearing on ‘Udaipur Files’; Awaits Centre’s Decision on CBFC Certification Revision Petitions
The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned the hearing of multiple petitions concerning the controversial film Udaipur Files: Kanhaiya Lal Tailor Murder, citing the pending decision of the Union Government on revision petitions filed against the film’s Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) clearance.
A bench led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud observed that the Centre’s committee was scheduled to meet later in the day at 2:30 PM to deliberate on the revision pleas challenging the certification granted to the film. In light of this development, the Court decided to wait for the outcome of the Centre’s proceedings before intervening in the matter.
The bench noted that the issue requires urgent attention but emphasized the importance of allowing the government committee to exercise its jurisdiction first. “We expect the Centre’s committee to take a decision immediately, without loss of time,” the Court stated. It acknowledged the concerns raised by both the petitioners—who have objected to the film’s release—and the filmmakers, who have urged for an early resolution of the matter given the proximity of the film’s release.
The petitions before the Court raise serious objections to the content of Udaipur Files, alleging that it could incite communal disharmony and misrepresent sensitive events surrounding the murder of tailor Kanhaiya Lal in Udaipur. The petitioners have demanded a stay on the film’s release and a re-evaluation of the CBFC’s clearance.
On the other hand, the producers of the film have argued for their right to free expression and have requested an expedited hearing to avoid delays that could impact the film’s distribution and exhibition.
Considering the competing interests, the Supreme Court remarked that the “balance of convenience” currently lies with the objectors, given the nature of the allegations and the public sensitivity around the subject matter.
The Court has posted the matter for further hearing on the following Monday, July 22, signaling that its next move will depend significantly on the outcome of the Centre’s review process.
