If the ban is not lifted immediately, our government may be considered undemocratic and arbitrary at best
LARKANA: Maalik was released on April 8 across cinemas in Pakistan. However, several days ago, the government placed a ban on the film owing to reservations that the movie indulges in negative ethnic stereotypes. It has been reported that soon after the release of this movie, the government had started receiving complaints about its content, which paved the way for its ban.
In the film, a chief minister has been portrayed as a corrupt leader. According to the government, such a movie may arouse discontent across the country. It is pertinent to ask why the government allowed the movie to be screened in the first place if it had such serious reservations about it. It was only after its successful screening that the government claimed the content of the movie was inappropriate for public viewership. Films all over the world are made to point out faults in society and governments. Irrespective of the origin of the films, such movies aim to highlight social norms and values in such a way that may prove constructive and reformative. Unfortunately, here in Pakistan, it is not allowed to depict an already prevailing mindset against those who are in power.
The ban has been vehemently condemned by show business personalities as well as by members of civil society. Renowned actor Zeba Bakhtiyar also condemned the ban and stated that by taking this decision, the government has overstepped its domain. The ban not only harms Pakistan’s image internationally, but will also discourage film-makers and cinemagoers. It seems that after the Panama leaks, the government has become so sensitive that it is unable to bear criticism that is actually a depiction of reality. The ban must be lifted immediately; otherwise, our government will not be able to dispel the impression that its style is undemocratic and arbitrary at best.
Asma Hussain Morio
Published in The Express Tribune, May 8th, 2016.
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