The Supreme Court Monday dismissed two petitions seeking a ban on the controversial movie and book "The Da Vinci Code".

While rejecting the plea, the court said the film carried a disclaimer making it clear that it was a work of fiction. Hence screening the film did not violate anyone's rights.

The petitions were filed by the All India Christians Welfare Association seeking a ban on the film's screening as well as the best-selling book by Dan Brown, saying both violated the fundamental rights of the community in India.

More than half a dozen states in India have already banned the screening of the film. Its release in Indian theatres was delayed following protests from Christian groups last month. The story promotes the theory that Jesus married Mary Magdalene and started a bloodline.

India is the only country in the world where the film is being released with a disclaimer at the beginning and the end clarifying it is a work of fiction.