British Sikh groups disrupt screening of Kangana Ranaut starrer Emergency in UK, several shows cancelled- Watch

The film Emergency which centres on former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi starring Kangana Ranaut, has faced significant backlash from the Sikh community due to its content. Despite obtaining permission from the censor board after a lengthy struggle, the film’s journey has been fraught with challenges. It particularly saw recent protests in the UK. The protests have escalated to the point where three cities in England have removed the film from their screens.

Kangana Ranaut starrer Emergency banned in UK due to content

The Sikh community’s substantial presence in certain UK areas has led to widespread demonstrations. Reports from social media show protesters interrupting screenings of Emergency in theatres, shouting slogans and clashing with the audience. As a result, several theatre owners in cities like Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and parts of West London, including Feltham and Hounslow, have opted to withdraw the film from their schedules.

Khalistanis halt screening of Kangana Ranaut's movie "Emergency" in Birmingham, Wolverhampton and west London

They gathered at various venues demanding a complete ban on the film.

Look, the so called “Yodhe” are showing bravery covering their faces!#Emergency pic.twitter.com/ne4Ew7xByo

— Ishani K (@IshaniKrishnaa) January 20, 2025

Though Emergency premiered in theatres worldwide on January 17, it continues to encounter controversies. In India, the SGPC community has formally requested a ban on the film, asserting that it misrepresents Sikhs. While no official action has been taken, theatre screenings in various cities have been affected as owners remain cautious about potential protests.

Khalistanis disrupt 🇮🇳Indian film screening 'Emergency' in 🇬🇧UK as police REMAIN SILIENT

📺 Khalistani radicals, faces covered, stormed a cinema hall in London to disrupt the screening of the film Emergency.

🗣A blatant attack on freedom of speech, happening under the watch of… pic.twitter.com/7bu22Nrfe0

— ARIKA🇮🇳🚩 (@nidhisj2001) January 20, 2025

Incidents in London

Videos circulating on social media depict alleged Khalistani protesters disrupting a screening in a London theatre, demanding an end to the film’s showing.

#BREAKING #bigbreaking #Khalistani radicals with faces covered storm inside a Cinema Hall in London, UK to disrupt screening of the film #Emergency. Shameful, under watch of #UK Govt against freedom of speech. No action taken by British Police. #London #England pic.twitter.com/0pmN8lEIPh

— Online24x7 (@ComOnline24x7) January 20, 2025

The protests were non-violent, but they left audiences shocked and sparked arguments. Notably, theatre authorities have yet to file any charges against the activists involved.

Statement from Sikh Advocacy Groups

The Sher-E-Punjab association reported that the popular theatre chain Vue confirmed it pulled the film from screenings over the weekend. They voiced concerns that the film is perceived as anti-Sikh propaganda, particularly regarding its portrayal of Indira Gandhi’s actions during the Sikh genocide. The statement highlighted the timing of the film’s release amidst ongoing discussions about *Sikh censorship and propaganda in India.

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A post shared by Kangana Ranaut (@kanganaranaut)

Kangana Ranaut’s Response

While Kangana Ranaut has not publicly responded to the international backlash, she previously labelled the challenges faced by the film as harassment. She claimed they were attempts to tarnish her image.

About Emergency

Emergency is a historical political thriller set in the 1970s, inspired by true events. Kangana Ranaut stars as Indira Gandhi, leading an ensemble cast. After various delays, the film was finally released in theatres on January 17, 2025.

Also Read: Kangana Ranaut addresses her fallout with Sonu Sood; Emergency director says, “It’s not important we become friends”