(Riya Singh, Intern Journalist): The Indian Air Force (IAF) has objected to an incorrect portrayal of gender bias and its work culture in the Dharma Productions’ movie ‘Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl’, which was released on streaming platform Netflix on Wednesday.
In a letter to the Dharma Productions, Netflix, and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), IAF said certain scenes and dialogues in the movie were found to portray the force in an undue negative light. “In the aim to glorify the screen character of ‘Ex-Fit Lt Gunjan Saxena’, M/s Dharma Productions presented some situations that are misleading and portray an inappropriate work culture especially against women in the IAF,” the letter said.
It added the production house was informed about the objectionable portions of the movie and was advised to delete or modify them. “However, the production house has not deleted the scenes, but had proposed a media plan in the run-up to the release and inserting a disclaimer in the movie,” the letter said.
As per the initial understanding, Dharma Productions had agreed to represent IAF with authenticity and make efforts to ensure the film helps to inspire the next generation of officers, according to a person familiar with the developments. Attempts to reach Dharma Productions and Netflix were unsuccessful at first. When contacted, an I&B ministry official said OTT platforms do not come under the purview of the ministry.
Last month, the defense ministry wrote a letter to CBFC drawing attention to movies and web series producers distorting the army’s image and advised they obtain no-objection certificates before airing their movies or shows.
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