Historian Makkhan Lal defends Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency

The controversy around Kangana Ranaut’s upcoming film Emergency has made headlines, igniting intense discussions about its portrayal of historical events and figures. Historian Makkhan Lal, engaged by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) as the “subject expert,” clarified to India Today Digital that the film, contrary to some beliefs, does not portray any former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in a negative light, despite her legacy comprising both positive and negative elements, like any other individual.
Lal questioned the outrage over the depiction of Bhindranwale, a contentious figure, which has been opposed by several Sikh organisations. Speaking to India Today Digital, he asked, “Does Bhindranwale represent the entire Sikh community? If so, why do other figures from the community, such as former Congress Chief Minister Beant Singh or Parkash Singh Badal, differ from him? Why is criticising Bhindranwale seen as an insult to the Sikh community?”
He further stated, “Who shot Mrs Indira Gandhi? If they were Sikhs, that is a fact. How can this be denied?” Professor Makkhan Lal stood by his expert comments to the CBFC after watching the Emergency, which features Kangana Ranaut in the lead role and has not yet received clearance from the CBFC. His name has been referenced in the affidavit submitted by the CBFC in court.
Lal emphasised that the film is rooted in facts, saying, “The film is entirely based on facts, and they haven’t altered the truth. I would say the filmmakers are very sympathetic to the issue depicted. While every political leader has flaws, the film does not show the negative aspects of Indira Gandhi’s character.”
Since the matter is currently before the Bombay High Court, Makkhan Lal refrained from providing further details, stating that more information would become available once a ruling on the film’s future is made.
In light of the concerns raised by Sikh community members, the CBFC convened a revisionary committee, which has now instructed the filmmakers to make certain cuts and insertions before receiving certification. The filmmakers have yet to decide on this, and the Bombay High Court will be informed by Monday. Earlier, the CBFC had directed cuts to which the filmmakers had agreed.