The Supreme Court of India has asked the makers of the controversial film The Udaipur Files to refrain from releasing it until the Centre reviews the matter. The film, reportedly based on the brutal 2022 murder of Kanhaiya Lal in Udaipur, has sparked concerns over its potential to incite communal unrest.

When the filmmakers contended that the Delhi High Court erred in stalling the film's release as the stay order violated the makers' right to freedom of speech and expression, the top court remarked that Article 21 (Fundamental Right to Life) will precede Article 19 (Fundamental Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression). 

The court told the filmmakers that the accused in the Kanhaiya Lal tailor murder case-- Mohammad Javed--can't be compensated for the loss of reputation if the film is released, but the filmmakers can be monetarily compensated.

The Centre has been given the responsibility to assess whether the film contains content that could provoke tensions. The court also advised the filmmakers to seek certification and guidance from the appropriate authorities before proceeding with the release.

Petitioners opposing the film argued it could spread hatred and misrepresent facts, especially in light of its trailer’s tone and treatment of the incident. Meanwhile, the filmmakers maintain it’s a factual portrayal aimed at highlighting the issue of religious extremism.