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The Supreme Court on Wednesday, 9 July, refused to entertain an urgent plea seeking a stay on the release of the upcoming film 'Udaipur Files', effectively paving the way for the film’s theatrical release on July 11. The movie, which stars Vijay Raaz as Kanhaiya Lal, the Udaipur tailor who was brutally murdered in broad daylight, has been drawing intense scrutiny ever since its trailer dropped.

Directed by Bharat S Shrinate and produced by Amit Jani, 'Udaipur Files' attempts to recreate the 2022 murder that shocked the nation and triggered debates on radicalisation and communal tensions. The film also stars Rajneesh Duggal, Preeti Jhangiani, Kamlesh Sawant, Kanchi Singh and Mushtaq Khan in key roles.

Ban Demands on 'Udaipur Files' Release

The petition was filed by Mohammed Javed, the eighth accused currently facing trial in the Kanhaiya Lal murder case. Through his counsel, Advocate Pyoli, Javed urged the court to put the release on hold until the trial concludes, claiming that the film could damage his right to a fair and impartial hearing.

According to Live Law, the petition alleged that the trailer and promotions of 'Udaipur Files' appeared to be “communally provocative” and presented a skewed version of events that might prejudice public perception and the judicial process.

However, a two-judge bench of Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Joymalya Bagchi declined the urgent listing of the matter. “Let it be released,” Justice Dhulia remarked when the counsel argued that the film might hit theatres before the petition is formally heard. The bench suggested the matter be taken up before the concerned bench after the Supreme Court reopens on July 14.

Controversy Continues Ahead of Release

This development comes shortly after the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, an influential Islamic clerical body, also filed petitions in three High Courts seeking a ban on the film. Despite these legal challenges, 'Udaipur Files' is marching ahead with its release.

With the legal hurdles momentarily out of the way, all eyes are now on how audiences will respond to 'Udaipur Files' when it hits the screens this Friday.