The central government has granted Y-category security to Amit Jani, the producer of the upcoming film "Udaipur Files: Kanhaiya Lal Tailor Murder," following claims of death threats. The security cover, which includes 11 personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), will be applicable in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.
Amit Jani, who also heads the Uttar Pradesh Navnirman Sena, a right-wing organization, expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for the decision. He conveyed his appreciation on social media platform X, stating, "Heartfelt thanks to honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji and home minister Shri Amit Shah ji for providing Y-category security from the Center".
The film "Udaipur Files" is based on the 2022 murder of Kanhaiya Lal, a tailor from Udaipur, Rajasthan. Lal was killed for allegedly sharing a social media post supporting Nupur Sharma, a former BJP spokesperson whose remarks on Prophet Muhammad sparked widespread controversy. The assailants filmed the act and released a video claiming responsibility, stating it was revenge for Kanhaiya Lal's support of Nupur Sharma. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) investigated the case, and the accused were charged under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and the Indian Penal Code (IPC); the trial is currently pending before a special NIA court in Jaipur.
The decision to provide Jani with Y-category security came after the Supreme Court allowed the producer, director, and Kanhaiya Lal's son to approach the police for protection, citing alleged threats to their lives. The court directed authorities to take necessary steps to ensure their safety if the threats were found to be serious.
Y-category security typically includes 4-5 armed commandos for personal security, secure transportation, and round-the-clock protection.
"Udaipur Files" has faced legal and censorship hurdles. The Delhi High Court had previously stayed the film's release despite censor board clearance, citing potential risks to communal harmony. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) had initially requested approximately 150 cuts before granting approval. The film was originally scheduled to be released on July 11, 2025, but after delays, it is now slated to release on August 8, 2025. The Supreme Court directed the Delhi High Court to address challenges against the government's approval of the film's release. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting directed the filmmakers to implement six specific changes before its release, in line with the recommendations of a screening committee.