Bengaluru, 30 Jan

Former Karnataka deputy chief minister CN Ashwath Narayan lashed out at Prakash Raj after the actor alleged that the Centre had stalled the screening of Palestinian films at the 17th Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFES).

Narayan accused him of being part of the “Tukde gang” and such people shouch face legal action.

Raj, the brand ambassador for this year’s festival, said that cinema and literature should focus on human stories and not be obstructed by political agendas. He also appealed to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the state government to allow the screening of Palestinian films at the festival.

Raj said, “The purpose of international film festivals or literary festivals is to share different ideas and provide opportunities for human connection. However, recently, political interference has increased in both cinema and literary programs.”

“Not allowing the screening of Palestinian films at the filmfestival is unacceptable. I request, and also demand that the state government protest against such bans and take a firm stand in support of screening these films. Like Kerala it should oppose the central government’s decision,” he said.