PM Narendra Modi biopic makers seek clarification on release of movie

After facing a stay on its release, the makers of PM Narendra Modi biopic has asked the Election Commission of India for a clarification on the release date

The commission had earlier submitted a report to the Supreme Court about altering various aspects of the movie. While the movie was supposed to hit theatres last month, a stay on its release had resulted from a ban on the film.

Having submitted a 20-page report, the EC cited 17 lines from the film that was stalled until the Lok Sabha polls. In the latest development of the Modi row, the makers are now asking for a clarification from the EC about the release date since it will not be affected by the model code of conduct. In a tweet by new agency ANI,  "Makers of biopic 'PM Narendra Modi' write to EC seeking clarification on its decision staying its release.

Letter states "We seek clarification in this regard from your office as we intend to promote film in areas which are no more affected by MCC after end of polling on 29.4.19"

Supreme Court on Friday dismissed a petition that challenged the Election Commission’s order banning the screening of PM Modi’s biopic until May 19. Notably, the apex court was hearing a plea submitted by the producers of PM Narendra Modi.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it was not inclined to entertain the application filed by producers of the biopic challenging the EC's order

Earlier, the EC told the SC that the film wasn’t just a biopic but a piece of work that “eulogises a public representative.” And it further stated that its release can “tilt the balance in favour of a particular party” in the ongoing elections.

Senior officers of the commission, who watched the film on April 17, stated that the Omung Kumar directorial was “unabashedly unidimensional” and that it tried to show the incumbent Prime Minister as a “cult” and “saintly” figure.

Several dialogues from the film like “Namo Namo gunjega is desh mein (Namo Namo will echo throughout this country),”  “Aur 1980 main janm hua ek nayi soch ka jiska naam tha BJP (A new mindset was born in 1980, which was called the BJP),” were objected by the EC as it sought for them to be axed from the movie.

The Modi biopic, starring Vivek Oberoi, has been the most-talked about movie this election season. Directed by Omung Kumar, “PM Narendra Modi” depicts the journey of Indian PM from his humble beginnings to becoming the Prime Minister of India. It also stars Boman Irani, Zarina Wahab, Darshan Kumaar and Manoj Joshi.