NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs (MEA) expressed concern over violent disruptions targeting screenings of the movie 'Emergency' in the United Kingdom, reiterating that it expects the government to ensure accountability for those disrupting lawful activities.
MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We have also seen several reports on how the film, Emergency, which was being screened in several halls, was being obstructed. We consistently raise concerns with the UK Government regarding incidents of violent protest and intimidation by anti-India elements. Freedom of speech and expression cannot be applied selectively, and those obstructing it must be held accountable.”
He added, "We hope that the UK side will take appropriate action against those responsible. Our High Commission in London remains in regular communication with our community members for their safety and benefit."
The MEA's reaction follows a series of attacks on cinemas screening the film. On Sunday night, masked individuals, identified as Khalistan supporters, stormed Harrow Vue cinema shouting anti-India slogans. The incident left people in attendance shaken, forcing the venue to halt the screening.
Protests by British Sikh groups have also compelled cinemas in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and parts of West London to cancel scheduled screenings of Emergency.
Describing the film as "anti-Sikh Indian state propaganda," protesters have escalated their demonstrations, with further disruptions planned at cinemas across the UK over the weekend.
The film, starring Kangana Ranaut as former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, dramatizes key political events during the Emergency period in India from 1975 to 1977. Produced by Zee Studios, the movie was pulled from Birmingham’s Star City Vue, Hounslow Cineworld, Feltham Cineworld, and Wolverhampton Cineworld following protester pressure.
The Sikh Press Association (Sikh PA), representing some of the protesting groups, stated that the film’s portrayal of historical events is perceived as "anti-Sikh," prompting widespread opposition in the country.