`Aarakshan' figures in Maharashtra Assembly; MLA seeks ban

MUMBAI: The Maharashtra Government would request the makers of `Aarakshan', said to be based on politics of reservations for backward classes, to show the movie to groups and legislators who have raised objections on the theme before its release, the Assembly was informed today.

Home Minister R R Patil gave this assurance after Jeetendra Awhad (NCP) said such themes in movies would upset social balance. Patil should watch the Prakash Jha-directed movie before it hits the screens on August 12, he said.

"If needed, the film should be banned," the NCP legislator demanded while raising the issue through a point of propriety after the Question Hour.

The Home Minister said the Government would request the filmmakers to organise screening for those opposing it before the movie's theatrical release.

The film, said to be based on the controversial issue of caste-based reservations in government jobs and educational institutions, stars Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone and Prateik.