Calling out at right to freedom of speech and expression, BJP replied to the Election Commission supporting the scheduled release of the 'PM Narendra Modi' biopic saying that the ban will only curtail the fundamental right. The film is scheduled to hit the theatres on April 5 but is awaiting the approval of the CBFC.
A few days ago, Congress called out the movie as an advertising strategy of the Saffron party and demanded that the release of the movie be postponed to after Elections. The EC sought a response from the BJP on April 1st when it responded saying that the matter is within the purview of the constitutional right to freedom of expression and any kind of prohibition will violate the basic fundamental right. Besides, the party has nothing to do with the film or its makers, said the BJP. The party stated, “Independent artists, influenced by the lifestyle of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, created the film but the BJP is in no way involved in it. There is no content related to the election which can be banned under the model code of conduct.”
The EC approached the makers of the film but they insisted that the timing of PM Narendra Modi and the Lok Sabha election (the 1st phase starts six days after the release of the film) is 'purely coincidental'.
On Wednesday, the Election Commission said that it will not impose a ban on the film as the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is the competent authority to decide.