Delhi High Court Reviews Controversial Film 'Dhurandhar' Allegedly Based on Major Mohit Sharma's Life

The Delhi High Court examined a plea to halt the release of 'Dhurandhar,' a film allegedly inspired by Major Mohit Sharma's life. The petition, filed by Sharma's family, argues the portrayal violates dignity and privacy rights. The court urged swift CBFC certification considering the family's concerns.

The Delhi High Court on Monday addressed a petition by the family of Late Major Mohit Sharma, an Ashoka Chakra awardee, seeking to stop the release of the upcoming film 'Dhurandhar'. Justice Sachin Datta led a comprehensive discussion with the petitioners' lawyers, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), and the filmmakers' representatives.

Justice Datta probed the petitioners' counsel about the film's alleged connection to Major Sharma's life, noting that the claim was based on promotional material and audience feedback. He questioned the purported link, asking: 'The story is based on his life? What is the uncanny similarity?'

Representing CBFC, CGSC Ashish Dixit explained that the film's certification was incomplete. He assured the court that the film had been viewed and deemed fictional, unrelated to any individual. Justice Datta suggested the CBFC should consider consulting with the Army.

The petitioners asked for a private screening for Major Sharma's family, as their counsel speculated whether the film was a biopic presented as fiction. Senior advocate Saurabh Kirpal, for the filmmakers, argued that the petition's rationale was flawed, emphasizing that only the trailer had been released and an injunction wasn't justified.

The court, in its order, recorded that the film's certification remains pending. It disposed of the petition, directing CBFC to consider the family's concerns and consult the Army if necessary, urging an expedited review process.

Sushila Sharma and Rajendra Prasad Sharma, Major Sharma's parents, allege that 'Dhurandhar,' set for a December 5 release, exploits their son's life and military career without consent. The plea argues security concerns and violation of rights, naming the Union of India, CBFC, director Aditya Dhar, and producer Jyoti Deshpande as respondents.

The petition requests an injunction on the release, a private screening, and details on factual checks used for the film. 'Dhurandhar,' a Hindi spy-action film by Aditya Dhar, features stars like Ranveer Singh and Sanjay Dutt. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)