(Leslee Udwin is an award-winning filmmaker who has made the documentary ' India's Daughter'.)
I am deeply saddened by today's attempts to silence the film ' India's Daughter' and to derail an impassioned plea for gender equality.
This is a documentary I left my young children and the comfort of my home for, to spend 2 years dedicated to a crucial cause in the public interest of women, not just in India but worldwide.
India is a democracy with civilised laws, but sadly this flouting of a basic right to freedom of speech by whomsoever has lodged the FIR, and equally depressingly, the irresponsible and sensationalist 'journalism' of the Times Group, is flying in the face of civilised values.
I am hugely indebted to NDTV which has stood by this film so firmly and with such commitment - because its values are civilised and admirable.
I urge Mr Modi to deal with this unceremonious silencing of the film.
I came here out of love for India, and because India had led the world by example in the unprecedented protests of its courageous men and women who came out on the streets to fight for my rights as a woman.
India should be embracing this film - not blocking it with a knee jerk hysteria without even seeing it. This was an opportunity for India to continue to show the world how much has changed since this heinous crime; sadly, the FIR and the banning of the film will see India isolated in the eyes of the world. It's a counter productive move. Whoever is behind this - please see the film and then come to a conclusion.
Premission from Ministry of Home Affairs to Interview Delhi Gang-Rape Convicts
Consent from Convict Mukesh Singh to be Interviewed for the Documentary