MEA on disruption during Kangana Ranaut’s ‘Emergency’ screening in UK: ‘Freedom of speech can’t be applied selectively’

'We hope that the UK side will take appropriate action against those responsible,' MEA spokesperson said

Expressing concern over disruptions at Emergency movie screenings in the UK, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in its weekly presser on Friday said that freedom of speech and expression cannot be applied selectively.

“We have also seen several reports on how the film, 'Emergency', which was being screened in several halls was being obstructed. We consistently raise concerns with the UK Government regarding incidents of violent protest and intimidation by anti-India elements. Freedom of speech and expression cannot be applied selectively and those obstructing it must be held accountable,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

He added, “We hope that the UK side will take appropriate action against those responsible. Our High Commission in London remains in touch, in regular communication with our community members for the safety and benefits.”

This comes as British Sikh groups staged protests against Kangana Ranaut’s film Emergency, disrupting screenings at several cinemas across the UK.

The Sikh Press Association (PA) group stated on social media that the film is seen as “anti-Sikh” and the protests have resulted in cancelled screenings in Birmingham and Wolverhampton, in the West Midlands region of England.

Community organisation Insight UK had posted a video on its X platform showing masked protesters interrupting a London screening of the film, directed by Ranaut who also essays the role of former prime minister Indira Gandhi.