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New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Delhi High Court seeking safeguards against the release of the upcoming film ‘The Taj Story’, alleging that it distorts historical facts and could disturb communal harmony.
The petition, filed by lawyer Shakeel Abbas, argued that the film, scheduled for nationwide release on October 31, is “completely based on fabricated facts” and “is a move to create communal unrest among different communities in India”.
“The film’s teaser and promotional posters depict the dome of the Taj Mahal being lifted up to reveal a figure of Lord Shiva emerging from it. These elements have generated considerable public debate and concern about communal harmony and the veracity of historical claims,” the petition said.
The petitioner has held the Government of India, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), and the film’s producer, Swarnim Global Services Private Limited, responsible. Ltd., producer CA Suresh Jha, director Tushar Amrish Goyal, writer Saurabh M. Pandey, Zee Music Company and actor Paresh Rawal as defendants.
“The respondents are trying to mislead the accurate history by spreading misinformation about the Taj Mahal. However, the CBFC and other authorities have not taken any action against the said film,” the plea alleged.
According to the petition, the film aims to “challenge the traditional narrative regarding the origin of the Taj Mahal” and promote “speculation or refuted theories” associated with the late historian PN Oak.
“When such claims are presented in mass media, especially film, they have the potential to mislead the public and undermine confidence in scholarly standards,” the petition said.
Invoking Article 51A(f) of the Constitution – which mandates citizens to preserve the composite culture of India – the PIL urged the Delhi High Court to direct the CBFC to review its certification and impose a disclaimer or ban to prevent communal disharmony.
The petition also warned that the film’s release “may lead to public disturbance or disturbance in Agra and beyond”, and that the “fictional portrayal” of the UNESCO World Heritage monument could harm tourism and public order.
The PIL prays that the makers of the film be directed to add a prominent disclaimer stating that “The Taj Story” is “a controversial narrative and not a definitive historical account”, and that the authorities ensure that no communal incident occurs after its release.
–IANS
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