A fresh controversy has erupted around the recently released Bollywood film ‘Jaat’. A police case has been registered against actors Sunny Deol, Randeep Hooda, and Vineet Kumar Singh in Punjab. The complaint alleges that a scene in the film has offended the religious sentiments of the Christian community.
Religious Sentiments Allegedly Hurt
Jalandhar police filed the FIR on Wednesday. It was filed under Section 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). This section deals with deliberate actions intended to incite religious outrage. Along with the leading actors, the complaint also names the film’s director Gopichand Malineni and its producers.
A particular scene, according to the complainant, portrays a character—played by Randeep Hooda—inside a church. He behaves in an inappropriate and threatening manner. This occurs while he stands beneath a crucifix and above the holy pulpit during a prayer session. The complainant claims this depiction is disrespectful to Jesus Christ and has “deeply hurt” the Christian community.
Timing of Release Questioned
The makers are accused of intentionally releasing the movie during the Christian holy period of Good Friday and Easter. This timing was potentially to provoke outrage. “The intention appears to be to create unrest. It seeks to provoke communal tension across the country,” the complainant claimed. He also demanded a ban on the film.
Star Cast and Production Details
‘Jaat’ stars Sunny Deol in the lead role and Randeep Hooda as the antagonist. The supporting cast includes Vineet Kumar Singh, Saiyami Kher, Regina Cassandra, Zarina Wahab, Jagapathi Babu, and Prashant Bajaj. The movie, released in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, is backed by Mythri Movie Makers and People Media Factory.
Directed by Gopichand Malineni. This film marks his Hindi directorial debut. The film has seen commercial success. It grossed over ₹32 crore in its opening weekend.
‘Jaat 2’ Announced Amid Controversy
Despite the backlash, Sunny Deol announced on Thursday that a sequel, ‘Jaat 2’, is already in the pipeline. He hinted at the franchise’s continuation.
As the controversy grows, the filmmakers are yet to release an official response regarding the allegations. It remains to be seen whether the authorities will take further action. However, the incident adds another chapter to the ongoing conversation around creative freedom versus religious sensitivity in Indian cinema.
