The Punjab and Haryana High Court has declined to stay the release of controversial film 'MSG: The Messnger of God', starring Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, the chief of religious sect Dera Sacha Sauda.
In its petition, Kalgidhar Sevak Jatha, an NGO based in Mohali in Punjab had sought a ban on the screening of the film in the state and in neighbouring Haryana, saying it would pose a serious threat to the law and order situation in the two states.
"The double bench has said that it will watch the movie first and assess if it hurts sentiments of the people... The court wants to assure itself that the movie has any effect on the peace and tranquility of the society before passing any orders," said Naveen Saini, counsel for the petitioners who had also presented before the court orders passed by the Censor Board objecting to the release of the film.
The opposition, Indian National Lok Dal is also opposing the release of 'MSG' in the state. Party leaders say the Dera chief faces serious criminal charges including sexual abuse and murder and his portrayal as a hero in the film would have negative effect on the youth.
The grand premiere of the film will be organised on February 11 or 12, he said.
Rape Convict Dera Chief Ram Rahim And His Temporary Release From Jail Just Before Polls Rape Convict Dera Chief Ram Rahim To Leave Jail Again For 21 Days Dera Chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Acquitted In 2002 Murder Case Villagers Try To Drive Away Elephant With Spiked Rods, Fireballs. It Dies "Mamata Banerjee Misleading Public, Should Resign": Nirbhaya's Mother Thar, Scorpio SUVs Inside Restricted Zone In Ranthambore Tiger Reserve Seized Air India Cabin Crew Member Assaulted In Her London Hotel Room Donald Trump Says He Is "Much Better Looking" Than Rival Kamala Harris World Photography Day: Date, History And Significance Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world.