Delhi HC to hear PIL against '120 Bahadur' next week
What's the story
The Delhi High Court has scheduled a hearing for November 26 on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) certificate granted to the upcoming Bollywood film, 120 Bahadur. The petition argues that the film distorts historical facts and seeks a change in its title. The movie, starring Farhan Akhtar, is set to release on Friday.
Petition details
Petition filed by Sanyukt Ahir Regiment Morcha
The PIL was filed by the Sanyukt Ahir Regiment Morcha, a charitable trust, its trustee, and relatives of soldiers who died in the Battle of Rezang La. The petition alleges that the film misrepresents history by portraying Major Shaitan Singh Bhati as a lone hero under a fictional name while erasing the collective identity and contribution of Ahir soldiers who fought alongside him.
Historical distortion
'120 Bahadur' misrepresents Battle of Rezang La, alleges petition
The petition claims that the film misrepresents the Battle of Rezang La, fought at an altitude of 18,000 feet in Ladakh's Chushul sector. The battle saw 114 out of 120 soldiers killed and is recognized by the Ministry of Defence's History Division as a symbol of collective valor. The Ahir soldiers from Rewari and nearby areas defended the Rezang La Pass with unmatched bravery and dedication.
Legal violations
Petition cites violations of Cinematograph Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
The petition argues that the film violates provisions of the Cinematograph Act and Certification Guidelines, which prohibit showing a "distorted view of history." It also contravenes Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which penalizes "imputations against deceased persons" that wound their relatives' sentiments. The trust has requested a review and stay on certification and release until the director changes the film's title and includes a disclaimer acknowledging Ahir soldiers' contributions.