Bob Blackman Calls for Intervention to Protect Free Speech and Peaceful Screenings
An Opposition Conservative Party Member of Parliament, Bob Blackman, has called on the UK Home Secretary to take action after constituents in northwest London were allegedly threatened by “masked Khalistani extremists” who disrupted a screening of Kangana Ranaut’s film Emergency.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Blackman highlighted similar disruptions at cinemas in Wolverhampton, Birmingham, Slough, Staines, and Manchester, which have led major cinema chains such as Vue and Cineworld to pull the film from several theatres across the UK.
“On Sunday, many of my constituents gathered and paid for a screening of the film Emergency at the Harrow Vue cinema. Around 30 to 40 minutes into the film, masked individuals stormed in, threatened members of the audience, and forced the screening to end,” Blackman said during the session.
Describing Emergency as a “very controversial” film, Blackman clarified that his remarks were not about the film’s quality or content but about the fundamental right of his constituents to view it without intimidation. “I defend the right of my constituents and others to watch this film and decide for themselves. It portrays a period in Indian history when Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister of India,” he said.
The MP acknowledged that certain groups in the UK perceive the film as “anti-Sikh,” but he firmly stated, “My constituents should be able to make their own judgment without being threatened by thugs disrupting democratic opportunities to watch public films.”
Blackman urged the Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, to issue a statement addressing what measures will be implemented to protect cinema-goers. “I absolutely defend the right of people to peacefully demonstrate outside cinemas, but not to disrupt screenings,” he added.
Leader of the Commons Lucy Powell, responding on behalf of the Labour government, emphasized the importance of balancing free speech and peaceful protest. “The ability of people to go about their activities freely, including watching a film approved by censors, is vital. I will ensure the House receives an update on these important issues,” she assured.
Since its release last Friday, Emergency has faced protests from certain British Sikh groups, who claim the film is “anti-Sikh.” Protests in Birmingham and Wolverhampton disrupted screenings, forcing cancellations at some locations.
Community organization Insight UK shared footage on social media showing masked protesters interrupting a London screening of the film. The video, widely circulated on social media, depicts the protesters entering the cinema mid-screening, chanting slogans, and demanding the screening halt.
The film, directed by Kangana Ranaut, who also stars as former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, has sparked significant debate over its portrayal of historical events. Despite the controversy, many have called for measures to ensure screenings proceed peacefully, safeguarding both public safety and free speech.