Cinematic Standoff: Controversy Over Film Denials at IFFK

The denial of central government clearance for 19 films at the International Film Festival of Kerala has sparked criticism from Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and Kerala Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian. Both leaders argue that the decision impacts Kerala's cinema tourism and the festival's future, urging authorities for immediate action.

Controversy arose over the central government's denial of clearance for 19 films at the International Film Festival of Kerala, with key figures like Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and Kerala Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian voicing strong criticism.

Tharoor condemned the clearance denial as "cinematic illiteracy" and "bureaucratic over-cautiousness," revealing that he had appealed to ministers S Jaishankar and Ashwini Vaishnaw for a reversal of the decision. Cherian highlighted potential setbacks to the state's cinema tourism and the festival's prospects.

The films in question include noted works like 'Battleship Potemkin' and several Palestinian films, with the denial seen as part of broader financial pressures on Kerala. The 30th International Film Festival of Kerala, awaiting censor exemptions for the films, remains under threat amid governmental tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)