Right-Wing Group Protests Docudrama Screening at NFAI in Pune

A right-wing organization in Pune disrupted a docudrama screening at the National Film Archive of India (NFAI), objecting to its portrayal of the Indian Army. The protesters were detained and later released.

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Pune, February 11: Members of a right-wing organization disrupted the screening of a docudrama at the National Film Archive of India (NFAI) in Pune on Sunday, claiming that it portrayed the Indian Army in a negative light. The protesters, belonging to the Samast Hindu Bandhav Sanghatana, were detained and later released after being issued notices under the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951.

Protesters Object to Docudrama's Portrayal of Indian Army

The incident occurred during the screening of a docudrama titled "I Am Not The River Jhelum" as part of NFAI's "A Festival of Contemporary Indian Films." The protesters raised slogans and demanded that the screening be stopped, alleging that certain scenes depicted the Indian Army in Kashmir in an unfavorable manner.

Right-Wing Organization Leader Expresses Concerns

Ravindra Padwal, president of the right-wing organization, explained their objection to the film. He stated that they received information from some audience members about the negative portrayal of the Army in the docudrama. By the time they arrived at the venue, the movie was nearing its end. Padwal and his associates voiced their disapproval of the scenes and raised slogans in support of the Army.

Demand for Explanation from Director

Padwal further mentioned that they requested the director to show them the docudrama and provide an explanation for the controversial scenes. While they were engaged in discussions with the organizers, the police intervened and took them to the police station.

Call for Sedition Charges against Director

Padwal expressed his belief that regardless of one's ideology, everyone should be proud of the Indian Army. He asserted that if the director had indeed projected the Army in a negative light, it amounted to sedition, and an offense should be registered against him.

NFAI Film Festival Showcases Diverse Indian Cinema

The NFAI film festival, held from February 9 to 11, featured a diverse selection of award-winning films in various Indian languages, including Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Bengali, Tamil, Manipuri-Tangkhul, Rajasthani-Hindi, and Khasi-Jaintia-Garo-Hindi.

The incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding the portrayal of the Indian Army in creative works and the potential for protests and objections from certain groups. It also underscores the importance of fostering open dialogue and understanding to address concerns and ensure freedom of expression within the framework of the law.