KL Report
Srinagar
The screening of a PSBT funded documentary, ‘Ocean of tears’ directed by Bilal A Jan was stopped in Kashmir University on Saturday even though the organizers claim they had fulfilled all the required formalities including permission from the vice chancellor.
When the film was about to get screened in KU’s convocation complex a large contingent of state police accompanied with university officials barged in and stopped the organizers from playing the movie.
“Just some minutes before the screening, Registrar of university, Zaffar Ahmad Reshi, informed me that they won’t allow to screen the documentary as they have some reservations against it,” said Bilal A Jan.
But the Registrar said, “A civilian came and claimed copy rights of the film so we had to stop the film at 11th hour.” The other authorities of the University assume to be unknown of the matter and refused to comment.
As per the eye witnesses about 400 to 500 people were waiting outside the complex and were enthusiastic to watch the 27 minute documentary that talks about human rights violation in Kashmir. They added that the people also chanted anti- state, anti University administration and pro freedom slogans.
Parveena Ahanger, President APDP who was also invited to watch the documentary while addressing the invitees said that it was unfortunate that the screening was stopped.
Shakeel Ahmad, victim of Shopian tragedy, also present on the occasion said, “When the Indian censor board has approved the film why isn’t the state allowing its screening in Kashmir”.
But university sources said, “It is very unfortunate that film was stopped from screening, actually somebody called and instructed the film should not be screened”.
However police spokesperson while denying the accusation told Kashmir Life, “police was present on the event as we had apprehension that there will be law and order problem and we have nothing to do with the permission”.
“The film talks about human rights crisis in Kashmir and that might be the reason why screening was not allowed,” said the director of the documentary.
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