The Election Commission of India (ECI) has asked for a report from the West Bengal chief electoral officer (CEO) Aariz Aftab on the film, Baghini: Bengal Tigress, slated to release in theatres on May 3.
Opposition political parties have brought to the ECI’s notice that the film’s release prior to the elections will violate the model code of conduct.
The film’s director Nehal Dutta, has claimed that it is not a biopic of West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee, but has been “inspired by” her life. The film’s lead role is played by a woman politician from Bengal who has an uncanny similarity with Banerjee. Addressed as “didi”, the film’s trailer shows the woman’s firm resolve in working for the people from a young age, and how she goes on to fight for the land rights of the poor. Episodes in the trailer have similarities with “real life incidents” known about Mamata Banerjee.
Ruma Chakraborty who plays the lead role – has enacted the role of Mamata Banerjee in several jatras.
There have been many biopics made in mainstream Bollywood films in recent times including one on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, after receiving complaints from Opposition parties, the Election Commission stopped the release of the film till the end of the elections, calling it a “threat to the level-playing field”.
Elections in Bengal are being held in seven phases – April 11, 18, 23, 29, May 6, 12 and 19. If the film releases on May 3, there are still three more days when elections will be held in West Bengal.
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