‘Vishwaroopam’ ban lifted in Tamil Nadu

The ban on Kamal Haasan’s controversial new film ‘Vishwaroopam’, which allegedly portrays Muslims in a negative light, has been lifted in Tamil Nadu.

The court agreed with lawyers that the state government’s move was unconstitutional. A legal notice from lawyers representing the state said the ban was needed to protect communal harmony and prevent hatred. They are not expected to appeal against today’s court hearing.

Haasan denied reports that the film was anti-Muslim. He said “Vishwaroopam was one of the most Muslim-friendly films in recent times”, and that the suspension was a violation of free speech.

The Bollywood star was supported by the Central Board for Film Certification (CBFC), which described the measure as “absolutely unacceptable”.

Extracts from BBC