'Udta Punjab' team hails Bombay HC's 'landmark' verdict

The team of "Udta Punjab" on Monday hailed the Bombay High Court verdict overruling the censor board's harsh demand of 13 cuts in the drug-themed movie and declared the film will now "fly".

Actor Shahid Kapoor has hailed how the voice of freedom and expression has been upheld, while the movie's co-producer Anurag Kashyap, who has been at the forefront of the fight against the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), said: "I believe!!!!!!"

Shahid tweeted: "Landmark judgement. Udta Punjab will fly and so will the voice of freedom and expression. Thank you all for the support. This is your victory."

Actor Diljit Dosanjh thanked all, and tweeted: "Shukar Shukar "

Abhishek Chaubey, the film's director, said he was massively relieved and that the makers are now looking to release the film on the scheduled date, June 17.

Actress Alia Bhatt commented: "FINALLY Udta Punjab will flyyyyy! Here's to freedom of expression, to our judiciary, to the industry, to the media and to YOU ALL!"

"Udta Punjab" delves on the festering issue of drugs in Punjab.

Its makers locked horns with CBFC over the suggestion of 89 cuts. The Revising Committee then brought down the cuts to 13. However, the Bombay High Court on Monday said the film can release with an 'A' certificate and suggested only cut and three disclaimers.

The film fraternity, which backed the film's makers, has heaved a sigh of relief over the judgment, which they feel is a "victory of democracy".

--IANS

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