(MENAFN - NewsBytes)

Center urges SC to "reconsider" national anthem in theatres
09 Jan 2018

Months after India's apex court questioned why people have to "wear patriotism on (their) sleeves," the Center said the SC "may reconsider" changing its November'16 order, which made it mandatory for the national anthem to be played in movie halls.

The Center said it has set up an inter-ministerial committee to examine the matter and present a report in six months.

What did the initial order say?
Order

On November 30, 2016, the SC ruled the national anthem must be played in theatres prior to screening.

It must be accompanied by the tricolor on the screen, the court said. People must stand to "honor and respect" the anthem, and all theatre exits should remain shut.

The order came on a PIL that urged it to frame guidelines for playing of the anthem.

The SC's changing stance on the matter
Change

In October'17, the SC backtracked. "People go to theatres for undiluted entertainment. You don't have to stand up for the anthem in cinemas to prove your patriotism," Justice DY Chandrachud observed.

He expressed concern over the way the SC order was being abused to dub people "anti-national".

"Next, someone might say people shouldn't go to movies in shorts. Where would this moral policing stop?"

Center to decide based on inter-ministerial committee's report
Center

The Center has now said an inter-ministerial committee consisting representatives of various ministries will look into the matter.

Based on its report, it will take a decision on framing of guidelines regarding playing of the anthem, the Center submitted.

Till then, the SC "may consider the restoration of status quo ante" and go back to the position before November'16, it said.

What exactly will the committee decide on?
Fact

The committee will review when, where and how to play the anthem and the proper way to show respect. The SC had noted it was nowadays being played everywhere, "matches, tournaments and even Olympics where half of the crowd does not understand its meaning."

MENAFN0901201801650000ID1096327261