Supreme Court pulls up filmmaker Neeraj Pandey over ‘Ghooskhor Pandat’ title, seeks clarification before OTT release
PTC Web Desk: The controversy surrounding the upcoming film 'Ghooskhor Pandat' has intensified after the Supreme Court of India raised serious objections to its title, observing that it should not be used to malign any section of society. The matter is currently under judicial consideration, with the next hearing scheduled for February 19.
A Bench comprising Justice BV Nagarathna and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan heard a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a stay on the film’s release on Netflix. The petition argues that the title and subject of the Manoj Bajpayee-starrer promote caste-based stereotypes and could potentially disturb communal harmony and public order.
During the proceedings, the Bench remarked that filmmakers must exercise caution while selecting titles, particularly when they reference a specific community. “You should not defame a section of society by using such a title. It is against morality and public order. We will not permit the release of the film unless you inform us about a changed title,” the court observed.
The apex court issued notices to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), Netflix, and filmmaker Neeraj Pandey. The court also directed Pandey to file an affidavit clarifying that the film does not defame any community.
The PIL was filed by Atul Mishra, National Organisation Secretary of the Brahmin Samaj of India. The plea seeks directions to restrain Netflix from streaming the film, alleging that the title is prima facie derogatory and portrays the Brahmin community in a defamatory light.
The petitioner objected to the use of the term “Ghooskhor” (meaning bribe-taker) in conjunction with “Pandat,” a term associated with caste and religious identity. The plea contends that such terminology links moral corruption with a specific community and risks violating constitutional values, promoting caste-based prejudice, and threatening communal harmony.
Produced by Neeraj Pandey, Ghooskhor Pandat was recently announced by Netflix at an event in Mumbai. The film features Manoj Bajpayee in the lead role, alongside Nusrat Bharucha, Saqib Saleem, Akshay Oberoi and Divya Dutta.
The Supreme Court’s intervention has placed the film’s OTT release on hold, pending further clarification and compliance with its directions.
- With inputs from agencies
