Documentary Screening on Umar Khalid Called Off by NLSIU LawSoc
The Law and Society Committee (LawSoc) at the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) in Bengaluru has opted to cancel the screening of Lalit Vachani’s documentary, Prisoner No. 626710 is Present, which focuses on incarcerated activist Umar Khalid. The decision came in response to substantial threats of legal action, harassment, and exposure of personal information directed at the committee.
In a communication directed to students, LawSoc expressed its steadfast dedication to the principles of freedom and justice. However, it emphasized the necessity to prioritize the safety and security of the NLSIU community. Consequently, following extensive discussions with the Student Bar Association and university administration, LawSoc concluded that the screening should not proceed. Instead, the committee plans to engage in informative and critical discussions regarding the pertinent issues in criminal justice raised by the current circumstances.
LawSoc clarified that this decision does not signify the cancellation of Political Prisoners Day or a retreat from addressing these vital conversations. The screening was initially slated for September 14, in recognition of Political Prisoners’ Day on September 13, and to mark six years since Khalid’s arrest related to the 2020 Delhi riots. The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) had been actively campaigning for the screening’s cancellation since its announcement. Due to logistical and security concerns surrounding the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, the screening had been postponed to September 19, a move LawSoc insisted was not due to external pressure.
Legal Considerations and CBFC Scrutiny
Sources revealed that LawSoc and NLSIU administration extensively deliberated on the legal implications. It was determined that the screening might not be fully compliant with legal standards, particularly in light of a potential review signaled by a Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) social media post. According to the Cinematograph Act, publicly screening a documentary not yet certified by the CBFC is illegal unless an exemption is granted under the Act.
The CBFC’s tweet on September 17 drew attention to this legal framework, suggesting that institutions should take necessary actions to comply. In light of these legal ambiguities and potential for complaints, LawSoc was advised to conduct a discussion in lieu of the screening, as even a legally sound event could attract scrutiny affecting students and faculty not directly involved.
More Read
LawSoc explored the possibility of a private, restricted screening but ultimately decided against it, acknowledging that operating in a legal grey area posed inherent risks. The decision was framed as a necessary compromise to mitigate legal risks rather than succumbing to external pressures.
Future Engagement and Academic Freedom
Looking ahead, LawSoc intends to collaborate with the Student Council and other student bodies to establish a comprehensive public stance on academic freedom. To avoid provoking further scrutiny, a planned poster-making session was also canceled. On September 19, in lieu of the documentary screening, LawSoc inaugurated its new series, The Criminal Justice Conversations. The first session, led by Professor Radhika Chitkara, focused on “UAPA: Bail & Beyond” and was followed by an open-house arts evening.
