Politics, Threats Keep ‘Shorgul’ Out of Theatres in Uttar Pradesh

Is political pressure keeping ‘Shorgul’ out of theatres in most places in Uttar Pradesh?

The Jimmy Shergill-Ashutosh Rana-starrer Shorgul which released on Friday got a thumbs down by most critics, but what’s worse for the filmmakers is that their film is not being screened in most theatres in Uttar Pradesh.

As per reports, opposition from political parties and threats from right-wing groups have affected the screening of the film in areas like Muzaffarnagar, Meerut and Shamli. This despite assurances from the local administration of full security.

Shorgul is based on the Muzaffarnagar riots of 2013 and allegedly has veiled references to real-life BJP and Samajwadi Party leaders.

Also Read: Exclusive: Godhra & Cow References Muted in ‘Shorgul’ by CBFC

Controversial BJP leader Sangeet Som had earlier demanded a ban on the screening of the riot-themed film Shorgul in Muzaffarnagar. Som, who has been under the scanner for his alleged role in the Muzaffarnagar riots, claimed that several political leaders had been portrayed in a factually incorrect manner in the film.

According to a report in The Hindu, Som has denied have threatened cinema owners against screening the film.

I had demanded that the movie be banned because it is a conspiracy to show me in a bad light. The film might offend people’s sentiments. I appreciate that the cinema owners of western U.P. have taken people’s emotions into account.

Sangeet Som, BJP Leader

However, the president of the Cinema Owners’ Association in Meerut said that Shorgul was not being screening in the city because of threats issues to cinema halls, but he refused to name the groups who said that cinema halls would be burnt down if they decided to screen the movie.