HC stays release of 'Gulaab Gang'

Pal says permission was not sought prior to making of film and had alleged that it contains defamatory content

The Delhi High Court today stayed the nationwide release on Friday of Hindi film Gulaab Gang, starring Madhuri Dixit and Juhi Chawla, on the plea of activist Sampat Pal who claimed that the film has been inspired by her group Gulaabi gang.

 

Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva restrained the film's producers, Sahara One Media Entertainment Ltd, and their agents from "releasing, exhibiting, distributing and promoting" the film till the next date of hearing on May 8.

 

The court was of the prima facie view that "irreparable damage and injury" would be caused to Pal if the movie is released.

 

It noted in its order that while the loss to the producers would be monetary, she will suffer both financial loss, as her copyright over Gulaabi gang has been used without her permission, and loss of reputation "which cannot be calculated in terms of money".

 

Pal in her plea has claimed that her permission was not sought prior to making of the film and had alleged that it contains defamatory content which would adversely affect her reputation.

 

Pal was present in court, dressed in a pink saree, which has come to symbolise her group.

 

Her group is actively involved in fighting social injustices against women, at times, adopting unconventional means.