Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday accused the Information and Broadcasting Ministry of blocking the Tamil film Jana Nayagan, calling the move an “attack on Tamil culture” and an assault on freedom of expression.
In a strong statement, Rahul Gandhi alleged that the decision by the Information and Broadcasting Ministry reflected an intolerance towards voices and narratives that do not align with the ruling establishment’s ideology. He said cinema has always been a powerful medium of cultural expression in Tamil Nadu and any attempt to suppress it amounts to disrespecting the state’s rich linguistic and artistic traditions.
Gandhi argued that Tamil cinema has historically played a crucial role in shaping social and political discourse, not just in Tamil Nadu but across the country. “Silencing a film is not just about censoring art; it is about undermining the democratic right to question, debate, and express,” he said, adding that diversity of thought is the foundation of India’s unity.
According to reports, Jana Nayagan has faced hurdles related to certification and screening permissions, triggering criticism from political leaders and sections of the film fraternity. Supporters of the film claim it raises socially relevant issues and should be allowed to reach audiences without political interference.
The Congress leader also appealed to the central government to reverse the decision and allow the film to be screened, stating that India’s strength lies in celebrating, not stifling, its many cultures. “Targeting Tamil culture or any regional identity weakens the idea of India,” he said.
So far, the Information and Broadcasting Ministry has not issued a detailed public response to Rahul Gandhi’s allegations. As the controversy grows, the issue has reignited a broader debate on censorship, creative freedom, and the role of the state in regulating artistic expression in a diverse democracy.
