Dramatic Halt at Kolkata Hotel
The event was initially planned at a major multiplex in Kolkata but was cancelled at the last moment, reportedly due to political interference. As a backup, the team arranged a trailer unveiling at a luxury hotel on EM Bypass.
According to filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri, all permissions were in place, and technical preparations had been finalized. However, just as the trailer was about to be screened, a heavy police presence entered the venue. Officers allegedly seized the laptop meant for the presentation and stopped the event mid-progress.
Both Agnihotri and actress-producer Pallavi Joshi were prevented from addressing the media and were escorted out under police security.
Police sources later claimed that while Agnihotri’s team had requested permission via email, no official clearance was granted, making the event unauthorized.
Freedom of Expression Under Fire
The sudden cancellation sparked outrage from the filmmakers and supporters. Agnihotri condemned the police intervention, calling it a “direct attack on democracy and artistic freedom.”
He questioned why authorities allowed preparations but revoked permission at the last minute, hinting at political pressure from the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). “If this is not dictatorship, then what is?” he asked during a press interaction.
Co-producer Pallavi Joshi voiced similar concerns, stating, “Such a thing did not happen even in Kashmir. Does this mean freedom of expression is more restricted in Bengal than elsewhere in India?”
Political Fallout and Reactions
The incident immediately turned into a political flashpoint. Members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), including leaders Shankudeb Panda and Sisir Bajoria, were present at the venue and condemned the disruption. They accused the state government of undermining democracy and restricting artistic voices.
Meanwhile, TMC leaders dismissed the allegations, branding Agnihotri’s actions as “politically motivated drama.” State Education Minister Bratya Basu defended the police decision, calling it an administrative move. He also criticized Agnihotri, asking why the filmmaker avoids making movies on other sensitive issues in India.
The Film at the Heart of the Storm
Directed by Vivek Agnihotri, The Bengal Files features an ensemble cast including Mithun Chakraborty, Anupam Kher, Darshan Kumar, and Pallavi Joshi.
The movie focuses on the communal violence in undivided Bengal during the 1940s, a topic historically and politically sensitive. The subject matter has fueled fierce debates, with critics accusing the director of attempting to polarize Bengal politically, while supporters argue that the film sheds light on overlooked chapters of Indian history.
Aftermath: Private Screening and Legal Battle
Despite the police action, the film’s team quickly organized a private trailer screening at the BJP office in Salt Lake, where party members and select media were present.
Producer Abhishek Agarwal confirmed that The Bengal Files will release nationwide on September 5, 2025, as planned. He also revealed that the team is exploring legal options to challenge the Kolkata Police’s actions and ensure the film reaches audiences across India without further restrictions.
Bigger Questions Raised
The controversy surrounding The Bengal Files highlights deeper concerns about censorship, political influence on cinema, and artistic freedom in India. The incident has become more than just a film launch disruption—it has ignited a national conversation on free speech and state intervention.
As the release date approaches, all eyes remain on both the filmmakers and the West Bengal administration. The debate over whether the halt was an administrative necessity or political censorship is likely to intensify, keeping The Bengal Files at the center of public and political discourse.
