Legislators from the Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have expressed approval for the decision to prohibit the screening of Palestinian films at the 17th Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFES). BJP MLA Mahesh Tenginakayi emphasized that the selection of films for screening is under the jurisdiction of the relevant department. He urged groups opposing the ban to focus on atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh and Pakistan instead of criticizing the ban on Palestinian films.
The legislators highlighted concerns that Palestinian films may have a hidden agenda that could disrupt social harmony. BJP MLA Y. Bharath Shetty asserted that these films could potentially disturb the peace and unity within society. He criticized actor Prakash Raj for advocating the exhibition of Palestinian films, alleging that such films are driven by propaganda and carry hidden motives.
Actor Prakash Raj, the festival ambassador, raised objections to the Central government’s decision not to allow the screening of Palestinian films at the festival. He emphasized the importance of international film festivals in fostering global connections but criticized the political interference in the Bengaluru International Film Festival. Prakash Raj called on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to take a firm stance on the issue and urged the Karnataka government and Film Academy to resist political influences in the festival.
