Cops to be deployed outside theatres in city

Mumbai:The Mumbai police will deploy its personnel ‘in adequate numbers’ outside multiplexes and single-screen theatres on January 25, when the controversial film Padmaavat is set for release, to ensure that it is screened without any disruption. The police has also sought help from the theatres to ensure that their staff stays vigilant against troublemakers by conducting in-house screening of patrons, said police sources. The police will deploy up to 10 security personnel outside multiplexes. The police will also provide protection to the movie’s production team and actors.

“We are in touch with associations representing the city’s multiplex and single-screen movie theatres to ensure the screening happens without any disturbance in view of threats from some outfits to disrupt the release,” said a source. He added, “We will deploy adequate police force around the multiplexes and single-screen theatres to thwart any violence or force by disruptive elements. There are provisions in the law to deal with these threats, but I should not spell that out as it will alert potential mischief-makers.” 

Speaking about security arrangements related to the movie’s release, Mumbai police commissioner Dattatray Padsalgikar said, “We will undertake adequate security protocols to ensure the law is not broken by anybody.” 

Deepak Devraj, the Mumbai police spokesperson, said “We will provide security to all cinema halls and multiplexes in Mumbai that are screening the movie. All strategies to maintain law and order are in place and we will execute them on the day.”  

The police has also kept under the scanner over 100 supporters of organisations that were detained on January 12 for protesting outside the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) office and Haji Ali against the clearance given to the film, which was earlier titled Padmavati. The outfit had demanded a ban on the film. The Rajput Karni Sena has been appealing the public to observe a ‘janta curfew’ on the day the film releases. 

Meanwhile, multiplex owners stated that they have already given applications to the local police asking for security arrangements and they have been assured the same.   According to the Cinema Owners & Exhibitors Association of India, the movie is going to release in at least 70 per cent of single screen theatres. “Pad Man has the cleared the deck for Padmaavat by postponing its release. A lot of money is at stake for Padmaavat including that of distributors. Also, we do not have any other movie to screen than Padmaavat,” said Deepak Kundale, President of the umbrella body.

Security cover

• A special task force will be also be set up to ensure security to cinemas. 
• It will be deployed from January 24 to 26, and will be extended as per the situation.
• Protection will be provided to the movie’s production team and actors.
• Over 100 supporters of organisations kept under the scanner