CM Raje bans Padmavat in Rajasthan

The ruling BJP government in Rajasthan led by Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Monday banned the release of the controversial film 'Padmavat'.

The film slated for release on January 25 will not be screened in any of the theatres in Rajasthan, a press release by Raje said.

The Chief Minister said, "The sacrifice of Rani Padmini is associated with the pride and glory of the state, owing to which Rani Padmini is not   just a historical figure but the pride of Rajasthan."  

The release said, "We will not allow her dignity to be hurt under any circumstance." The ban,   after the film got clearance from Central Board of Film Certification, appears to be intended towards keeping the Rajput community in Bharatiya Janata Party's fold. Raje's announcement comes ahead of Lok Sabha bypolls to be held in Rajasthan on January 29.

Earlier in the day, Gulab Chand Kataria, Rajasthan's home minister, also said the film will not be allowed to be screened in the state.