SC refuses to stay Dashavataram's June 13 release

New Delhi, Jun 12: The Supreme Court today dismissed a petition seeking a ban on the screening of a movie ''Dashavataram'' on the grounds that it hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus.

A vacation bench comprising Justices Arijit Pasayat and P P Naolekar refused to entertain the petition filed by International Sri Vaishnav Dharam Sanatan Society, asking the petitioner to first see the movie. The president of the petitioner's society, appearing in person, contended before the court that the name of the movie is misleading as ''Dashavataram'' according to Hindu mythology refers to ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu while the movie is full of obscenity and violence.

The petitioner also contended that the screening of the movie should be banned till the objectionable portions including its name are either removed or changed.

The apex court, however, did not agree and refused to entertain the petition.

UNI