BJP Leader Moves Kerala High Court To Ban 'Empuraan', Says Film Can Incite Communal Violence

A writ petition has been filed in the Kerala High Court seeking to stop the screening of the Malayalam film 'Empuraan'. The petitioner is V. V. Vijesh, a member of the BJP Thrissur District Committee. The petitioner objected to the depiction of the post-Godhra communal riots in the movie and said that there was a risk of inciting communal violence.

The big-budget Mohanlal-starrer 'Empuraan' became a centre of controversy after certain right-wing groups objected to the portrayal of the 2002 Gujarat riots. Subsequently, Mohanlal expressed regret through a Facebook post and said that the objectionable portions would be removed. As per reports, the makers have re-edited the movie.

The petitioner has however termed Mohanlal's statement a marketing agenda to compel the public to watch the movie.

The petitioner stated that there were comments about the Ministry of Defence in the movie that would undermine its credibility and integrity.

The petitioner alleged that the movie has a potential risk of inciting communal violence.

“Since the film's release, multiple rumors and controversies have emerged, and its continued screening possess a potential risk of inciting communal violence and disturbing public order.”, the petition said

The petitioner further alleged that the director of the movie Prithviraj had a habit of targeting the NDA government through his movies to tarnish its reputation.

It was also alleged that the producers of the movie, Antony Perumbavoor and Gokulam Gopalan are persons under ED investigation for foreign funding.

The petition is moved by Advocate K. P. Prasanth

Case Title: V. V. Vijesh v The Secretary and Others

Case No: WP(C) 13500/ 2025