PR stunts are tried to keep film projects in news: Smriti Irani

Agencies

December 10, 2017

Mumbai, Dec 10: Many a time, PR stunts are used to keep film projects in news, Union minister Smriti Irani today said as she praised censor board chief Prasoon Joshi for working within the guidelines while clearing films.

She was speaking at an event 'We the Women', alongside Ekta Kapoor. The session was moderated by Karan Johar.

During the audience interaction, she was asked, "Why film industry is considered a soft target and why artistic freedom has to be sacrificed for political reasons?"

In her response, Irani said, "Whenever elections are round the corner, such questions come up. We have become part of a PR stream of a film, there is a need for introspection for this (as well).

"Industry people do know when a when a PR movement plays out. The issue is that it is an insult to our intelligence when those who are doing the PR thing, presume that we are not wiser."

Talking about freedom of expression, Irani said, "As far as freedom of expression goes, I am very proud of the current CBFC chairperson Prasoon Joshi, a sensitive soul, a great writer. He is so dignified in all his endeavours and interactions. When sensitive people have stayed in position, I feel as a minister we understand that he is working as per the laws and within it (guidelines).

"The presumption that those siting in a chair, are of certain ideology and have no idea about law, in itself invites negative connotation. Lot of films have been cleared, the big film that got clearance was on Arvind Kejriwal, under this government."

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Vokkaligara Sangha threatens Congress: ‘Shivakumar must be CM or face backlash’

News Network

November 27,2025

Bengaluru: The Vokkaligara Sangha on Thursday issued a stern warning to the Congress, saying the party could face serious electoral repercussions if Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is not appointed as Chief Minister.

The warning follows the public backing of Shivakumar’s chief ministerial ambition by top Vokkaliga pontiff Nirmalanandanatha Swami, who urged the Congress high command to honor his claim.

“The community supported Congress in the 2023 Assembly elections only because Shivakumar had a real chance to become CM. If he is cheated, we’ll teach the party a big lesson,” said newly elected Sangha president L. Srinivas. He added that Vokkaligas would organize protests under the guidance of community leaders.

General Secretary C.G. Gangadhar pointed out that Congress won more seats in the Vokkaliga-dominated Old Mysuru region due to Shivakumar’s influence, adding, “If Congress wants to retain power, Shivakumar should be made the CM.”

Outgoing president Kenchappa Gowda emphasized Shivakumar’s contribution to Congress’ victory. “Our community voted for Congress thinking he would become CM. Siddaramaiah has also served the party well, but Shivakumar should now be given a chance,” he said.

Former general-secretary Konappa Reddy appealed to Sonia and Rahul Gandhi to recognize Shivakumar’s loyalty and service, saying, “Congress is known to keep its promises. We hope it won’t break the promise made to him.”

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