NEW DELHI: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has expressed concern over violent disruptions targeting the screenings of the movie Emergency in the United Kingdom. The ministry emphasized the importance of holding those obstructing lawful activities accountable and urged the UK government to ensure such incidents are addressed.
“We have seen reports about the film Emergency facing disruptions in several cinemas. We consistently raise concerns with the UK Government about violent protests and intimidation by anti-India elements. Freedom of speech and expression cannot be applied selectively, and those responsible for these disruptions must be held accountable,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated.
He further added, “We trust that the UK authorities will take appropriate action against those involved. Our High Commission in London remains in close contact with the Indian community to ensure their safety and well-being.”
The MEA’s remarks come in the wake of multiple attacks on cinemas screening the film. On Sunday, masked individuals—allegedly Khalistan supporters—stormed the Harrow Vue cinema, shouting anti-India slogans and forcing the screening to be halted, leaving attendees shaken.
Protests by British Sikh groups have led to the cancellation of Emergency screenings in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and parts of West London. Demonstrators have labeled the film as “anti-Sikh Indian state propaganda” and announced plans to intensify protests at other venues over the weekend.
The movie, starring Kangana Ranaut as former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, depicts key political events during India’s Emergency period (1975–1977). Produced by Zee Studios, it has faced significant backlash, with screenings canceled at venues including Star City Vue in Birmingham, Cineworld in Hounslow and Feltham, and Cineworld in Wolverhampton, following mounting pressure from protestors.
The Sikh Press Association (Sikh PA), representing some of the protesting groups, claimed that the movie’s portrayal of historical events is “anti-Sikh,” fueling widespread opposition across the UK.
