Kala Hiran producers petition Supreme Court after Delhi HC bans teaser

The production house behind the upcoming film "Kala Hiran" filed a petition in the Supreme Court on Tuesday, challenging a directive issued by the Delhi High Court that mandated the removal of the movie's promotional teaser. The high court's order came after a complaint alleging that the teaser contained content deemed offensive to certain community sentiments.

In its filing, the filmmakers argue that the teaser is a lawful expression of artistic creativity and that the high court's order infringes on their freedom of speech guaranteed under the Constitution. They have requested the apex court to stay the removal order and allow the teaser to be displayed pending a detailed hearing.

Legal experts note that the case pits creative freedom against community sensitivities, a recurring theme in Indian media law. The Supreme Court's decision could set a precedent for how promotional material for films is regulated in the future.

The controversy has drawn attention from the film industry and civil society alike, with several actors and directors expressing support for the producers' right to showcase their work without undue censorship.

The Supreme Court has not yet scheduled a hearing date, and the outcome remains pending.