Mayawati – BSP Chief Calls for Ban on Film Over Caste Insult Allegations
Mayawati – Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati on Friday sharply criticised the Hindi film Ghooskhor Pandat, accusing it of insulting the Brahmin community and promoting caste-based prejudice. Calling the issue deeply troubling, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister urged the central government to step in and immediately ban the movie, which she described as casteist in nature.
In a statement shared on her official social media account, Mayawati said it was a matter of serious concern that the word pandit, traditionally associated with respect and learning, was being portrayed in a derogatory manner. She argued that such representation not only harms social harmony but also spreads disrespect toward an entire community across the country.
Concern Over Representation in Films
Mayawati said the depiction shown in the film suggested pandits as infiltrators, a narrative she described as both misleading and offensive. According to her, this trend was earlier limited to political rhetoric in parts of Uttar Pradesh but has now found its way into mainstream cinema, amplifying its impact nationwide.
She stated that the portrayal had caused widespread anger among members of the Brahmin community, who feel targeted and misrepresented. Emphasising the BSP’s position, Mayawati said the party strongly condemns any content that stereotypes or humiliates people on the basis of caste, religion, or social identity.
Demand for Immediate Central Action
The BSP leader called on the Union government to act without delay, urging authorities to impose a ban on what she termed a caste-indicative film. She maintained that allowing such content to circulate freely could deepen social divisions and undermine mutual respect among communities.
Mayawati also stressed that freedom of expression should not be used as a shield to justify content that promotes prejudice or insults any section of society. She said films and other creative works carry social responsibility, especially in a diverse country like India.
Police Register FIR Against Film’s Team
Separately, the controversy has also led to legal action in Uttar Pradesh. The Hazratganj police station in Lucknow has registered a First Information Report against the film’s director and members of the production team. The complaint alleges that the film contains material that insults a particular caste and encourages social hostility.
According to the police, the FIR has been filed under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. These include provisions related to promoting enmity on the grounds of religion, caste, or language, as well as deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings. Charges linked to intentional insult that could provoke a breach of peace and sections dealing with public mischief have also been invoked.
Use of Digital Platforms Under Scrutiny
In addition to criminal provisions, the case also includes Section 66 of the Information Technology (Amendment) Act. This section relates to the misuse of digital platforms, suggesting that online promotion or dissemination of the controversial content may also be under investigation.
Police officials said the matter is being examined carefully, and further action will depend on the findings of the inquiry. They added that maintaining public order and communal harmony remains a priority.
Broader Debate on Cinema and Social Responsibility
The episode has once again brought attention to the role of cinema in shaping public perception. While filmmakers often defend creative freedom, critics argue that insensitive portrayals can reinforce harmful stereotypes and trigger social unrest.
As the investigation continues, the controversy surrounding Ghooskhor Pandat is expected to fuel wider discussions on balancing artistic expression with accountability, particularly when films touch upon sensitive social identities.