Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has come out swinging against the Central Government’s recent decision to deny screening permissions for several films at the International Film Festival of Kerala or IFFK The senior leader expressed his deep disappointment and anger calling the move an unfortunate development that could tarnish India's reputation on the global stage.Speaking to the media in Thiruvananthapuram Tharoor did not mince his words. He highlighted that India has a long and celebrated tradition of respecting cinematic culture especially through prestigious events like the film festivals in Goa and Kerala. However he pointed out that this year the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting refused clearance for multiple films which forced the cancellation of screenings that delegates were eagerly waiting for.Tharoor was particularly critical of the bureaucracy involved in these decisions.He remarked that our officials need to develop a more refined sensibility when it comes to art and cinema because such actions put India's image at stake.He termed some of the decisions as laughable noting that barring films from an international festival reflects poorly on the country’s democratic values and cultural openness.The controversy erupted after the Centre denied permission for around 19 films that were scheduled to be screened at the 30th edition of the IFFK. This led to a wave of protests from the Kerala state government and film enthusiasts who see this as a direct attack on creative expression. Tharoor backed these sentiments stating that no film should be denied a platform in a free society especially at a recognized international forum.He further added that censorship at such festivals sends a wrong message to the world about India’s tolerance for dissenting voices and diverse artistic perspectives. The Thiruvananthapuram MP urged the concerned ministries to intervene and prevent further embarrassment ensuring that cinema remains a medium of free expression rather than a subject of bureaucratic control.
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