FIR in Delhi, UP against makers of documentary film Kaali for 'offensive' poster
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Hours after the poster of director Leena Manimekalai 's upcoming documentary film Kaali stirred a massive controversy with its derogatory depiction of Hindu Goddess Kaali, Delhi Police has registered an FIR against the makers. The poster, which was unveiled on Monday, July 4, showed a woman dressed as the Hindu goddess is seen smoking a cigarette with a pride flag in the background.
The Delhi Police have registered a case against the film and its Toronto-based director for allegedly hurting religious sentiments with its poster, said officials Tuesday.
The police action came after several complaints were filed against Manimekalai for insulting the Hindu goddess Kali and hurting religious sentiments. Several people also demanded the arrest of the director on social media.
The Cyber Crime Unit of the Delhi Police registered an FIR under Sections 153 A (promoting enmity between groups) and 295 A (outraging religious feelings) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
On Monday, BJP leader Shivam Chhabra filed a complaint against Manimekalai with the Delhi Police.
"Leena's tweet is insulting Hindus and their gods. An inquiry should be conducted against her for hurting the feelings of thousands of Hindus," said the BJP leader in his complaint.
Another complaint was filed by the Gau Mahasabha which was sent to the Delhi Police commissioner.
In the complaint, the members said, "Accused (Leena) released a poster of alleged documentary in which she presents Goddess Kali in the derogatory and offensive manner, accused released a poster of goddess kali in which she is enjoying smoking… The complainant and other office-bearers have been shocked after seeing this poster on social media which has gone viral," reads the complaint.
A second FIR has been filed by the Uttar Pradesh police against Manimekalai for her movie 'Kaali' and her disrespectful depiction of Hindu Gods. The UP Police has registered the case on charges of criminal conspiracy, offence in a place of worship, and deliberately hurting religious sentiments with an intention to provoke a breach of peace. This has been filed under IPC Sections 120-B, 153-B, 295, 295-A, 298, 504, 505(1)(b), 505(2), 66, and 67.