The BJP-led central government has long faced criticism for allegedly using central investigative agencies to target its political opponents. The recent raids conducted by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on the Chennai and Kochi offices of Malayalam film producer Gokulam Gopalan, in connection with suspected financial irregularities, have once again raised serious concerns. Following the ED action, the Income Tax Department issued a notice to actor and director Prithviraj Sukumaran, who helmed the much-anticipated film L2: Empuraan. If these developments are indeed linked to the making of the film, the central government must urgently reconsider its approach. Using powerful agencies to stifle dissent or punish artistic expression sets a dangerous precedent.
There is no objection to central agencies conducting raids or inquiries – provided they are based on genuine evidence and follow due process. But deploying these institutions as instruments of political vendetta, especially against those who challenge the ideology of the BJP or the RSS, cannot be justified in a democracy. The Constitution of India guarantees freedom of speech to all citizens. That freedom must be upheld, not undermined. The makers of L2: Empuraan, starring Mohanlal, recently made 24 voluntary cuts to the film, amounting to a total of 2.08 minutes, after sustained backlash from right-wing groups. South Journal does not support this decision. If the filmmakers believe they have committed no wrong, they should have taken legal recourse to defend their creative freedom rather than succumbing to external pressure.
The growing climate of fear and censorship surrounding cinema and political expression is deeply troubling. It is essential that democratic institutions remain independent and that artistic voices are not silenced under political duress.
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