Freedom of speech cannot be applied selectively: India in touch with UK over 'Emergency' screening protest

"We have seen reports on how the film 'Emergency', being screened in several halls, was being obstructed. We consistently raise concerns with the UK regarding incidents of violent protest and intimidation by anti-India elements... freedom of speech and expression cannot be applied selectively," MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a media briefing.

"Those obstructing it (the film screening) must be held accountable," he said.

"We hope the UK will take appropriate action against those responsible. Our High Commission in London remains in touch with our community members for their safety..." Jaiswal said.

There have been reports that people in northwest London had been threatened by "masked Khalistani terrorists", who stormed into a theatre showing Ranaut's new film.

Similar disruptions were reported from Wolverhampton, Birmingham, and Manchester, prompting at least two movie theatre chains to pull the film.

"The film is very controversial, and I am not commenting on its quality or content... but I defend the right of my constituents, and other members' constituents, to be able to view it and make a decision on it. It covers the period when Indira Gandhi was Prime Minister of India," Jaiswal said.

According to reports, some British Sikh groups, such as the Sikh Press Association, had organised protests against what they said was an "anti-Sikh" movie, which eventually led to disrupted shows in these towns.

The film is based on the infamous Emergency period which was declared by then Prime Minister Gandhi in 1975.

Ranaut, who has also written the film,has co-produced Emergency, and plays the role of Indira Gandhi.