BOYCOTT MULTIPLEXES IN GUJARAT A NON-COOPERATION MOVEMENT TO REGAIN FREE SPEECH

In the last few days the forces of lawlessness and goondaism have once again challenged us, the people of Gujarat. The multiplex owners in Gujarat have decided not to release Parzania in the state. The Bajrang Dal had given a call that it will not allow this film to be screened unless they found it fit enough! The cinema owners gave into the pressure of the Dal, even after the Police Commissioner had offered adequate protection and safety. It has now become clear that the multiplex-cinema owners were more eager to tow the undemocratic line drawn by the Bajrang Dal rather than heed to the voice of the reason and sanity.

The multiplex-cinema owners kept repeating that they have not received any threats from anyone, and yet they are scared to release the film. The Police Commissioner has offered security but the cinema-owners rather listen to the goons of Bajrang Dal rather than trusting the police. More than 2000 people signed a petition condemning this unofficial ban and the petition was forwarded to the Chief Minister who has not had the decency to even acknowledge it.

Now, the matter is back with the people of Gujarat. It is time for us to stand up and be counted against this lawlessness and disrespect for our democratic values. The only way out for us is, to call for a Non-Cooperation Movement against the multiplex owners of Gujarat. We want to prove to the multiplex owners, in a peaceful manner, that we do not tolerate their self imposed censorship. Let us hurt the multiplex cinema owners where it hurts them the most - their business. Let us teach them a lesson of democracy and dissent. Let us boycott all multiplexes in Gujarat till they release Parzania!

We, the undersigned people of Gujarat, are willing to make this small sacrifice for the sake of our dignity and democratic values and hereby boycott the multiplexes in Gujarat.