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Security Review for 'Dhurandhar 2' Ordered by Delhi High Court
The Delhi High Court has directed the Union government and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to thoroughly review claims that the film 'Dhurandhar 2' may have jeopardized national security. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) raised concerns that the movie, reportedly starring Ranveer Singh, could expose sensitive operational details of the Indian armed forces and information related to Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) drug development. The court acknowledged the potential impact, stating that even fictional portrayals require careful examination.
Balancing Artistry and National Security
A Division Bench, led by Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia, recognized the petitioner's concerns. They emphasized that the influence of any film, regardless of its fictional nature, is significant. The court's decision reflects an increasing awareness of the need to balance creative freedom with national security imperatives. The allegations include the potential disclosure of classified DRDO research on new drugs, adding another dimension to the security review.
Regulatory Action and Precedent
The court instructed the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) and the CBFC to consider the PIL as a formal representation and issue a reasoned decision. This case highlights the importance of strong guidelines for the CBFC to handle content that could affect national security. Authorities are tasked with determining if the film's narrative, even if fictionalized, violates the Official Secrets Act or presents other security risks. The court's directive sets a precedent for scrutinizing entertainment content with potential national security implications.