Documentary Screening Controversy: 4 Arrested in Hyderabad for Disturbing Peace

In Hyderabad, four individuals were arrested for organizing an unauthorized screening of the documentary Ram Ke Naam at a restaurant. The screening allegedly caused a disturbance and offended religious sentiments, prompting a complaint and subsequent legal action.

On Sunday, the police in Hyderabad reported the arrest of four individuals for screening a documentary without the necessary permissions and causing a disturbance of the peace. The documentary, titled "Ram ke naam," was shown at a restaurant in Neredmet on Saturday without any authorization.

Charges Filed Under IPC Sections

A case was registered against the organizers under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including Section 143 (unlawful assembly), Section 290 (public nuisance), and Section 295 A (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs).

Complainant's Allegations

According to the First Information Report (FIR), the complainant, who visited the restaurant with friends, stated that the documentary was being played and a few people were discussing it. He claimed that the acts and behavior of these individuals were against Hinduism and hurt religious sentiments, and that they made derogatory statements against the Hindu religion. The complainant also alleged that when he questioned the management about the screening, he was verbally abused by the organizers.

Allegations of Intentional Communal Issues

The complainant further alleged that the organizers intentionally held the event to create communal issues ahead of the Lord Ram temple event in Ayodhya.

AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi's Response

In response to the incident, AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi took to Twitter to question the actions of the Rachakonda commissionerate police. He asked why the screening of the documentary was stopped midway and criticized the arrest of three individuals. Owaisi also questioned the legality of screening an award-winning documentary and suggested that the Government of India and Filmfare should be held accountable if it is considered a crime.

The incident has sparked discussions on freedom of expression and the role of authorities in regulating public screenings. The arrested individuals are expected to face legal proceedings, and the outcome of the case will be closely monitored.