NCP MLA Jitendra Awhad Calls for Public Hanging of ‘The Kerala Story’ Producer

New Delhi (India), May 9, 2023: NCP leader Jitendra Awhad’s controversial statement against the producers of the film ‘The Kerala Story’ has sparked a political uproar across India.

The Sudipto Sen-directed movie, depicting the recruitment of girls by the terrorist organization Islamic State, has been deemed offensive by Awhad, who called for the producer to be hanged in public. The film has received support from two BJP-ruled states, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, with both declaring it tax-free.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a rally in poll-bound Karnataka’s Ballari, lauded the film for exposing the consequences of terrorism in society, especially in a state like Kerala. However, the Congress party has been quick to condemn the film, with the West Bengal government even banning its release to avoid inciting hatred and violence.

In the latest development, the Supreme Court is set to hear a petition against the Kerala High Court’s order, which refused to stay the film’s release. The high court ruled that the movie’s trailer does not contain anything offensive to any particular community as a whole.

The controversy surrounding ‘The Kerala Story’ has reignited the debate on artistic freedom versus censorship. While some have hailed the film’s bold and unflinching portrayal of terrorism, others have accused it of being insensitive towards a particular community. With the film continuing to spark political debates, it remains to be seen how this controversy will play out in the days to come.