Pune: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh on Tuesday strongly advocated for the uncut release of the upcoming biopic Phule, amidst growing controversy over its depiction of Brahmins. Singh asserted that the opposition to the film disrespects Dalits and undermines the legacy of reformers Jyotiba and Savitribai Phule.
Addressing the media in Pune, Singh stated that objections to the movie, sparked after the trailer’s online release on April 10, were misplaced and offensive. “While the nation marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, attempts to stall the release of Phule are disheartening. It’s an insult to Dalits, the oppressed, and everyone inspired by the Phules,” he said.
Certain Brahmin groups raised concerns over the trailer, alleging it presents the community in a negative light. However, Phule director Anant Mahadevan dismissed the criticism, stating that the trailer was being misinterpreted. “People have judged the film based on a two-minute clip. There is nothing offensive in the actual movie,” he clarified.
Originally slated for release last week, the biopic is now set to hit theatres on April 25.
In addition to defending the film, Singh also criticized the central government over the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, alleging it is a strategic move to seize religious land. “This is just the beginning. Defence land was handed over to Adani in Ayodhya. Now, they’re targeting Waqf properties. Next, they’ll go after land owned by gurdwaras, churches, and temples—all to benefit corporate allies of the Prime Minister,” he alleged.
Singh’s remarks come at a time when political and religious tensions continue to mount over freedom of expression, land rights, and the representation of historical reformers in mainstream media.
