PM Narendra Modi biopic: Congress moves EC to stall the release of the film

A day after Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) threatened to stall the biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Maharashtra, the Congress on Monday moved the Election Commission (EC) to defer the release of the movie till the final phase voting in the Lok Sabha polls i.e., May 19. 

The Congress party has said that if PM Modi’s movie, will release on April 5 during the Lok Sabha polls, it would violate the model code of conduct and influence voters.

A Congress delegation comprising Kapil Sibal, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, R P N Singh, and Randeep Singh Surjewala, went to the Election Commission with a representation seeking stalling of the film’s release just ahead of the polls.

Congress moves EC to stall the release

“The purpose of this film is only political — to get some extra mileage in the elections. We believe, it is not just a corrupt practice, but the very launch of the film is motivated,” Sibal told reporters outside the Election Commission (EC).

He alleged that three of the producers belonged to the BJP and actor Oberoi was also from the ruling party.

“So, the whole purpose is to gain advantage. This is violative of all norms. This is no artistic venture. It is a political venture and that is what we have told the Election Commission and should not be allowed. It does not allow for a level playing field,” the senior Congress leader said.

Meanwhile, The Delhi Chief Electoral Office on Monday said it was awaiting a reply from the makers of a biopic after it felt that the film violated the model code of conduct. 

East Delhi Returning Officer K Mahesh, had on March 20, suo motu issued notices to the production house and music company behind the film “PM Narendra Modi” and two leading newspapers for publishing advertisements of the film.

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Delhi Chief Electoral Officer Ranbir Singh said the concerned parties have been given time till March 30 to respond.

The biopic features Bollywood actor Vivek Anand Oberoi in the titular role, and chronicles the life and events that made Narendra Damodardas Modi the prime minister of India.