Major Mohit Sharma's Family Seeks Stay on Ranveer Singh's ‘Dhurandhar’

Martyr's Family Files Delhi HC Petition, Alleges 'Dhurandhar' Exploits Life Without Consent

Ranveer Singh’s upcoming release, Dhurandhar, is facing criticism from the family of late Major Mohit Sharma, who went undercover as Iftikhar Bhatt to infiltrate Hizbul Mujahideen in the early 2000s. The Ashoka Chakra awardee’s family alleges that the filmmakers did not seek permission before including crucial life events from their son’s life. Additionally, the Major’s parents have filed a complaint against the film producers to halt its release.

Petition Cites Violation of Posthumous Dignity and Privacy Rights

Mohit Sharma’s parents have filed a plea with the Delhi High Court, which seeks to stop the release of the Ranveer Singh-starrer film Dhurandhar. They claim the movie is inspired by their son's life and military activities, but the filmmakers did not seek permission or consult them. 

The plea states Major Sharma is not a "commercial commodity" to be used for profit. It argues that this unauthorized portrayal violates the martyr's "posthumous personality rights" under Article 21.

Furthermore, the portrayal infringes upon the family's rights to dignity and privacy. The trailer reflects important counter-terrorism operations from the Major's life. The petitioners called themselves "humble and grieving parents," deeply shaken by the commercial exploitation, requesting a complete stay on the film’s release.

Concerns Raised Over Depiction of Classified Military Tactics and Operations

The family has raised serious concerns over potential national security violations, claiming that the movie highlights military combat strategies and classified operational procedures. 

The petition states this was done without obtaining the requisite permission. They allege that no clearance was sought from the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI), the governing body for portraying the Indian Army on screen.

The portrayal of Special Forces operations and counter-terror missions that involve Major Mohit Sharma's real history raises serious concerns, according to his parents. Moreover, the plea notes that some of Major Sharma's missions remain classified in nature.

The parents are apprehensive that the filmmakers proceeded without securing the required approvals. They argue that military tactics shown demand mandatory scrutiny from the ADGPI. The petition names the ADGPI as one of the key respondents.