Directed by Shlok Sharma, the film chronicles a relationship between a 14-year-old girl (Shweta Tripathi) and her tuition teacher, played by Siddiqui, in a small town.
There were reports that a screening of the film was held recently for the Examining Committee of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The committee, however, declined to pass the movie.
When asked about this, producer Guneet Monga of Sikhya Entertainment told PTI, "Yes, they refused to give us a certificate saying that the theme of the film is objectionable. They didn't ask for any cuts, just refused to pass the film, saying that it puts the teachers in a bad light."
Interestingly, the film was premiered in 15th annual New York Indian Film Festival, where Siddiqui received the Best Actor award for his performance. 'Haraamkhor' was also presented the Silver Gateway of India trophy at the 17th Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival last year.
Monga says she tried to explain the members of the committee the context of the film but they said the theme of the movie was "unacceptable." "I did (explain to the members) but they said the movie shows the teachers in a bad light, which is unacceptable to the society. I tried to reason that these things do happen. In fact, the film's director was inspired by real life stories to make the movie. But nothing happened."
The next step for the makers is to take the movie to Film Certification Appellate Tribunal (FCAT). "We will now follow the procedure and take our movie to FCAT. We are trying for that." Asked if need be, will they be going to the court, Monga said, "I hope not. I hope the issue gets resolved."
Despite repeated attempts, CBFC chief Pahlaj Nihalani could not be reached for comments.
