CSF demands a ban on ''Da Vinci Code''

Mumbai, May 1 (UNI) The Catholic Secular Forum (CSF) has demanded a ban on ''Da Vinci Code'' which releases in India on May 17.

In a press release, CSF general secretary Joseph Dias said the film, adopted from Dan Brown's best seller by the same name, has been widely criticised in Christian circles, including the Vatican and Council of Churches.

Thus, even if to maintain cordial relations with friendly countries, who value freedom of religion, ''Da Vinci Code'' needs to be banned. The movie hurts the religious sentiments and has scope for inciting communal passions and disturbing peace of those who value secular ideals. A ban will stop such films from being made and screened in India, he added.

The Christian community has been tolerant in that the international best seller has been allowed, with token protest, he added.

The CSF says the movie paints Jesus as a mere mortal with basic instincts and not as God or son of God. It says the movie makes derogatory references to the Christ and the Holy Bible.

The movie is being distributed in India by Sony Pictures Entertainment. It stars Tom Hanks, Jean Reno, and Audrey Tautou and has been directed by Ron Howard.

The fact that the book is labeled ''fiction'' does not give the writer any license to abuse a religion, the CSF has said.

UNI MR MAZ KD ND2010