Won't allow Padmavati release in Gujarat : Vijay Rupani

The Gujarat government has decided not to screen 'Padmavati' in any of the theatres across the state till the controversy surrounding the film dies down.

Addressing a press conference at BJP's media centre in Ahmedabad on Wednesday, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said, "The Gujarat government has decided that 'Padmavati' will not be released in any of the cinemas till the controversy surrounding it is over. 

Gujarat is a poll-bound state and the release of this film could trigger law and order situation, considering how sensitive the issue has become."

"We cannot ignore the sentiments of those opposing the movie on certain grounds. The film has something that is not acceptable to some sections, and we respect their concerns. If the film has tweaked facts and shows content that is totally against the Indian culture, then the decision not to allow its screening has been made in the larger interest of the society," Rupani added.

The chief minister made it clear that the Election Commission's permission was not required before making the decision as the issue concerned law and order. He noted that the ban on the film's release will stay even after polls, until the controversy was over.