The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) told the Bombay High Court on September 26 that Kangana Ranaut’s film Emergency can be released after cutting out the portions suggested by its revising committee.

‘Emergency’ is a biographical political thriller that delves into the life of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who imposed a 21-month Emergency period from 1975 to 1977. The film is written, directed and produced by Bollywood Actress and an MP from Himachal Pradesh Kangana Ranaut.

The CBFC informed the Bombay High Court that it would issue a certificate for Ranaut’s film, provided certain cuts recommended by its revising committee are made. Initially scheduled for release on September 6, the film has faced delays due to ongoing disputes with the CBFC over certification. Ranaut, who directed, co-produced, and stars as former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, has accused the CBFC of deliberately stalling the certification process to hinder the film’s release.

The biographical drama has attracted controversy, particularly from Sikh organizations, including the Shiromani Akali Dal, which claim the film misrepresents the community and distorts historical facts. 

Last week, a division bench of Justices criticized the CBFC for its indecision, emphasizing that delaying certification could infringe on freedom of speech and expression. The court ordered the CBFC to finalize its decision.

In response to the bench’s inquiry about progress, CBFC counsel confirmed that the revising committee had recommended cuts before a certificate could be granted. 

A senior counsel, representing Zee Entertainment Enterprises, which co-produced the film, requested time to consider these proposed changes. The bench has scheduled further hearings for September 30. Zee Entertainment’s plea alleged that the CBFC was withholding certification due to political motives linked to certain upcoming elections.