Bhatkal: Tanzeem calls for ban on ‘Udaipur Files’, says film spreads hate, misrepresents Islam
Bhatkal, July 10: The Majlis-e-Islah wa Tanzeem, a prominent socio-religious organisation based in Bhatkal, has opposed the release of the controversial film Udaipur Files, alleging that it spreads misinformation, promotes communal hatred, and targets the Muslim community in a biased manner. In a press statement issued on Thursday, the organisation demanded an immediate and permanent ban on the film, warning that its release would only deepen existing communal divisions in the country.
The Tanzeem stated that the movie, which claims to be based on real events, selectively portrays an entire community in a negative light under the pretext of truth-telling. “The film includes objectionable references to Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) and distorts Islamic teachings. Such content is not only offensive to Muslims but also poses a grave threat to the nation’s social harmony,” the statement said.
Drawing parallels to previously released films like The Kashmir Files and The Kerala Story, the Tanzeem alleged that Udaipur Files follows the same pattern of presenting one-sided narratives under the garb of cinema, with the intent to fuel hatred and mistrust. The organisation noted that such films had previously triggered a rise in communal tensions across the country and feared a similar fallout with the release of Udaipur Files.
“Let us be clear — films like these do not promote justice or dialogue. They manufacture fear and spread prejudice,” the statement noted, adding that the movie arrives at a time when communal harmony is fragile and the legal proceedings in the Udaipur incident are still underway. “To fictionalise and communalise an ongoing case through a cinematic portrayal is not only irresponsible but also dangerous,” the statement read.
The organisation urged the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the government to act responsibly and prevent the release of the film in any format — whether in theatres, television, or online platforms. According to the Tanzeem, permitting the film’s release would set a dangerous precedent and embolden more such productions that aim to vilify specific communities.
“In case the film is released despite these concerns, we call upon all peace-loving and secular-minded citizens of India to register their protest and oppose this growing trend of communal propaganda through cinema,” the Tanzeem said.
The statement further expressed alarm over the growing misuse of cinema to legitimise fringe ideologies and communal narratives, warning that such content does not remain limited to entertainment halls but seeps into classrooms, workplaces, homes, and public discourse — affecting society at large.
Majlis-e-Islah wa Tanzeem also urged political parties to take a clear and principled stand against the release of such films. “Those who claim to stand for secularism, democracy and justice must not remain silent in this hour. Silence will only embolden those who seek to divide the country,” it said.
Reiterating its long-standing commitment to communal harmony, peaceful coexistence, and the rule of law, the organisation stated that any criminal act — including the tragic Udaipur incident — must be dealt with strictly under the law and not through provocative and biased portrayals on the silver screen.
Calling for a broader public engagement on the matter, the Tanzeem appealed to civil society groups, student organisations, legal experts, journalists, and filmmakers to stand against content that distorts facts and undermines constitutional values. “India’s strength lies in its unity and diversity. We must not let films become weapons that poison minds and tear our society apart,” the organisation concluded.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Experience comes when you play bigger teams in bilateral series: Rashid Khan
Chennai (PTI): Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan called for more bilateral series against stronger cricketing nations after his team signed off from the T20 World Cup on a high, defeating Canada in their final group match here on Thursday.
Afghanistan played some exhilarating cricket, going down to South Africa in a gripping second Super Over after the scores were tied, a humdinger that provided one of the early thrills of the World Cup.
However, the spin-bowling stalwart said Afghanistan could make significant strides if they get regular opportunities to compete against stronger cricketing nations.
"Couple of areas to improve, with the batting, the middle order got a bit stuck against the big teams, and then with the bowling the death overs. That comes when you play the bigger teams in bilateral series," said Rashid after his team defeat Canada by 82 runs, with him returning excellent figures of 2 for 19.
The stalwart said the side had arrived well prepared for the tournament and produced some breathtaking cricket, but admitted the narrow defeat to South Africa proved costly and remained a painful setback.
"We were well-prepared (for the tournament), we played some unbelievable cricket. The game against South Africa, that really hurt everyone. We had to win one of those (first two) games and see how the tournament unfolded. We'll take some positive things from this World Cup and look forward," he said.
With head coach Jonathan Trott set to part ways with the team, Rashid described the departure as an "emotional" moment for the side.
"I think we had some wonderful times with him. Where we are now, he played a main role. It's emotional to see him leave us, but that's how life is. We wish him all the best and somewhere down the line we see him again."
Ibrahim Zadran, who was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 95 off 56 balls, said it was satisfying to finally register a substantial score after two below-par outings.
"I enjoyed it, didn't play better cricket in first two innings, which I expect. Wanted to back my skills, really enjoyed it. Pressure was there, it's there all the time. I want to put myself in pressure situations and enjoy it," said Zadran.
"Wanted to play positive cricket, rotate strike and punish bad ball, create partnerships and this is what I have done."
