MSG row: SAD holds protest in Delhi

New Delhi, Jan 16: The national capital on Friday saw a protest against controversial film 'Messenger of God', which features Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, held by supporters of Shiromani Akali Dal.

As they marched towards the BJP headquarters here, the protesters demanded an inquiry into the circumstances leading to the resignation of Censor Board Chairperson Leela Samson allegedly over "clearance" to the movie by the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal (FCAT).

The protesters, who were stopped by police, called for a ban on the film to "keep peace" in the country.

"The way this movie received clearance and how the chair of the Censor Board resigned raises many questions that need to be inquired into," a protester said.

The movie, which was expected to hit theatres on Friday, had been referred by the Censor Board to FCAT for clearance on January 12.

Protests have erupted in various parts of Punjab and Haryana over the controversial film ahead of its screening.

Asked whether she was aware about news reports that FCAT has cleared the film, Samson had said last night, "I hear so. Nothing in writing yet. It is a mockery of CBFC. My resignation is final. Have informed (I&B) secretary."

She had stated that the decision to quit was taken because of "recent cases of interference", "coercion and corruption of panel members and officers" of the Censor Board, allegations that the government refuted today saying it has always maintained a distance from the entire process of film certification.

PTI