Censor Board of Film Certification Chief Prasson Joshi who was supposed to grace the Jaipur Literature Festival has decided to stay away in light of the ongoing Karni Sena protests. The noted writer is under the scanner of the Rajput group Karni Sena, following the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film Padmaavat. The Karni Sena had earlier threatened Joshi and stated they would not allow him to enter the state of Rajasthan.

Prasoon Joshi was targeted for clearing the film which the group alleges as a distortion and insult to the Rajput history and culture. Rajasthan’s police force had assured of providing security to him for the event. But Joshi has himself taken a step back. He gave a statement saying, “Will not be attending JLF this year and must say will miss sharing great moments with literature and poetry lovers. I am doing this so that the dignity of the event does not get compromised or discomfort caused either to the organisers, fellow writers or the attendees. And also so that the lovers of literature get to focus on creativity and not controversy.” Joshi also clarified that while clearing the film he did look into the due procedure and the concerns of the society.

Joshi attending the event could’ve worsened the protests by the fringe group and it would pose a bigger risk to the attendants. Meanwhile, the film was released in other states (except MP, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Bihar) and is doing well at the box-office. The film did a smooth business of close to Rs. 20 crore on the first day and already crossed the Rs. 50 crore mark by its second day.

The literature festival which sees eminent writers and dignitaries in attendance has seen a similar issue before with acclaimed writer Salman Rushdie. In 2012, Salman Rushdie did not attend the festival because he too faced security threats against him as hundreds of Muslim activists threatened to attack him. This protest was regarding his book The Satanic Verses which showed the Islamic religion in not so good light.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 27, 2018 02:34 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).