Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri's The Bengal Files, which depicts the 1946 Great Calcutta Killings, hit theatres on September 5, but has not been released in West Bengal. Pallavi Joshi, one of the lead stars and producers, shared that political pressure has led multiplex owners to reportedly refuse screenings. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), representing 36 affiliated associations and scores of members across the film and television industry, has expressed deep concern over this undeclared ban on the film's release in West Bengal.
FWICE Slams Undeclared Ban On Vivek Agnihotri's The Bengal Files
In a press release shared by the FWICE on Monday, they wrote, "It is shocking that a film which has been duly certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is facing such an undeclared ban. This is clearly against the law and undermines the very framework laid down for regulating film exhibition in India."
Condemning such actions, FWICE stated that whether direct or indirect, they strike at the very heart of the constitutional right to freedom of expression and undermine the creative liberty of filmmakers who dedicate their talent, resources, and hard work to bring important stories to the screen.
Suppressing a film without any official directive or legal order, the body added, is not only unjust but also sets a dangerous precedent for the future of Indian cinema.
FWICE Demands Immediate Theatrical Release In West Bengal
"We appeal to all theatre owners in West Bengal to immediately begin screening Bengal Files. The film represents significant investment, effort, and artistic labour of the filmmakers, and its audience deserves the opportunity to view it freely," said FWICE in an official statement.
FWICE affirmed its support for the producers of Bengal Files and appealed to producer bodies across the country to raise their objections against what it termed an illegal ban.
The Bengal Files starred Mithun Chakraborty, Simratt Kaur, Simran Khan, Pallavi Joshi, Anupam Kher, Simratt Kaur and Darshan Kumarr.
