Cinema halls in Jharkhand may not screen the film "The Da Vinci Code" amid fears that screening the controversial movie might spark tensions.

"I have decided not to screen it. It is risky as chances of vandalism are high in Ranchi considering the sizable population of Christians," a cinema hall owner said.

Of Jharkhand's total population of 26.9 million, more than one million are Christian (2001 Census).

Said the owner of another cinema hall: "One can never predict the mood of the public. They can go violent any time. It is a BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party)-ruled state. If Christians protest, the issue can be exploited by Hindutva groups."

Although Christian groups have not protested against the film, they say it is potentially provocative and denigrates Christian faith.

C.R Prabhu, vice-chairperson of the All Churches Committee, had said Monday: "We will not issue any decree on the screening of the film. But we cannot say anything about the spontaneous outcry of the faithful."

Cardinal Telesphore P. Toppo had earlier said: "It is up to the state government to decide on the screening. But it is provocative and hurts the sentiments of our community."

Authorities in some states have banned the movie although the Supreme Court had earlier this month rejected a plea for a ban. Since the film carried a disclaimer making it clear that it was a work of fiction, screening the film did not violate anyone's rights, the court said.