The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has informed the Delhi High Court that the controversial parts of the film Udaipur Files have been removed, following strong objections from Muslim organisations.
One of the petitions was filed by Maulana Arshad Madani, president of Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind. He said the film could “create hatred between communities” and demanded a ban on its release.
“This film is not just a movie—it’s a tool that can damage peace in the country,” said Maulana Madani in his plea.
The film is based on the 2022 killing of Kanhaiya Lal, a tailor in Udaipur, Rajasthan. He was murdered by two men, Mohammad Riyaz Attari and Ghaus Mohammad, after a video emerged of him supporting Nupur Sharma, a politician who made controversial remarks about the Prophet Muhammad.
The case is sensitive, and Muslim leaders fear the movie may worsen tensions.In court, the CBFC said it had asked the filmmakers to remove objectionable scenes before giving clearance.
Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma confirmed that the filmmakers agreed and made the required changes.
The High Court has now asked the film’s makers to show a private screening to the lawyers involved.The judges will hear the case again on Thursday, July 10.
The petition said the film’s trailer, released on June 26, had “hate-filled dialogues” and scenes that could inflame passions. It also reportedly showed the controversial remarks made by Nupur Sharma, which had earlier sparked riots and led to the killing of Kanhaiya Lal.
“The trailer is full of dangerous and communal language. It could trigger violence again,” the petition stated.
The petitioners also argued that the film breaks rules under the Cinematograph Act and film certification guidelines, which bar content that could harm peace and public order.
The court’s final decision on the movie’s release is expected soon.
