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.
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Netanyahu defends expanded Gaza offfensive; Israeli strike kills five Al Jazeera journalists
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Tel Aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday defended a fresh military offensive in the Gaza Strip, calling it “more sweeping than previously announced” and asserting that Israel “has no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas.”
Speaking amid mounting condemnation at home and abroad over the 22-month conflict, Netanyahu said the security cabinet had directed the dismantling of Hamas strongholds not only in Gaza City but also in the “central camps” and Muwasi. These areas, according to UN estimates, shelter more than half a million displaced people and had not been mentioned in Israel’s earlier announcement on Friday.
A source familiar with the operation, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed Israel’s plans to extend military action to both areas. Netanyahu maintained that “safe zones” would be established, though such areas have been bombed in previous strikes.
The announcement came as heavy bombardment was reported in Gaza City late Sunday. Shortly before midnight, Al Jazeera confirmed the killing of its correspondent Anas al-Sharif in a targeted Israeli strike. The attack hit a tent for Al Jazeera journalists outside the main gate of al-Shifa Hospital, an area known for hosting medical personnel.
Shifa Hospital’s administrative director, Rami Mohanna, said the strike killed five Al Jazeera journalists, including Sharif, whom Israel accused of leading a Hamas cell responsible for orchestrating rocket attacks. Sharif was killed moments after posting a video showing intense bombardment in Gaza City.
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