The Political Calculus Behind Film Bans in West Bengal

West Bengal, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has been at the center of a controversial debate over film bans in recent times. The decision to ban movies, particularly those perceived as controversial, is part of a broader political calculus that goes beyond mere entertainment. This article delves into the reasons behind these bans and the underlying political motivations.

Understanding the Context

Mamata Banerjee, a prominent politician, has managed to secure around 28 percent of the vote from the minority community, which has been a significant part of her political strategy. This support is so crucial that any action that might anger this community risks jeopardizing her political standing. Hence, it is imperative for her to maintain a delicate balance to keep these loyal voters content.

The Role of Unofficial Pet Vote Banks

The minority community is often referred to as the unofficial pet vote banks of several political leaders, including Chief Ministers. Given this, the decision to ban any production that could potentially offend this community is a strategic move. For instance, when advised by her so-called advisors, many of whom are considered sub-standard, she has often banned movies that critique or depict certain communities negatively.

The CMS’s Influence on Decisions

There is a common perception that Mamata Banerjee frequently aligns with her advisors or even her family members in making decisions. This was evident in her decision to ban the movie Kashmir Files, despite its clear content being about a specific commodity's drawbacks. It is believed that she feels she represents about 3/4th of that community, making the ban seem more justifiable and necessary.

Regional Politics and Film Censorship

Politically motivated film bans are not unique to West Bengal. For example, while the BJP and several alliances ruled Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, these states saw a high rate of girls disappearing, with an estimated 50,000 girls given entertainment tax exemptions. In contrast, West Bengal banned the same practice in opposition to the BJP. The film industry, once again, has become a battleground where political agendas clash.

The BJP-Modi Agenda and Communal Ideology

Compounding the issue is the role of the BJP-Modi government in promoting stories that disseminate hate and communal tension. The recent ban on the film Gujaarat Files in West Bengal exemplifies the politicization of these bans. While the opposition may claim that such bans are necessary to protect certain communities, the reality is that they are often designed to serve a broader political narrative that seeks to vilify certain groups for electoral gains.

Community Threats and Political Responses

Another aspect of this political calculus is the threat and intimidation by various groups, such as the VHP and Bagrang Dal. Despite these incidences, the question remains: why did the previous governments not protest or question these bans? The answer lies in the intricate relationship between political parties and their constituencies. In some cases, the political cost of challenging such bans may outweigh the potential benefits.

Conclusion

In summary, the decision to ban films in West Bengal is not merely about entertainment censorship but a deeply strategic move rooted in political calculus. These bans serve to protect the incumbent's base while intimidating potential opponents. As long as the underlying political motivations remain, it is likely that these bans will continue, impacting the film industry and the broader landscape of democracy in the state.