By Metanabes Correspondent
September 23, 2023
In a recent address, Judge Gautam Patel, a distinguished member of the Bombay High Court known for his progressive views, has raised apprehensions about the potentially detrimental messages conveyed by blockbuster movies like Singham. Patel highlighted how these films depict hero cops delivering swift justice outside the bounds of legal due process.
Speaking at an event hosted by the Indian Police Foundation to commemorate its annual day and Police Reforms Day, Patel questioned the public’s growing impatience with the judicial process. He drew attention to how these movies often portray police officers who openly criticize judges as timid, meek, and poorly dressed individuals. Moreover, they frequently depict the protagonist dispensing justice unilaterally, disregarding the necessity for a fair trial.
Using Singham as a notable example, Patel underscored a pivotal scene in the film’s climax, where the entire police force confronts a corrupt politician, played by Prakash Raj. While the movie suggests that justice has been served, Patel urged the audience to critically assess whether this was indeed the case. He cautioned against the perilous message propagated by such films and implored people to acknowledge the significance of due process.
Patel stressed that impatience with the legal system could compromise the foundational principle of safeguarding an individual’s freedom. He emphasized that determining innocence or guilt requires a meticulous and considered examination of evidence, which naturally consumes time. By endorsing shortcuts or circumventing the established legal framework, Patel argued that the very essence of the rule of law would face a direct challenge.
Singham, originally released in July 2011, is an action film directed by Rohit Shetty. It is a remake of the 2010 Tamil film of the same name and features Ajay Devgan in the lead role as a police officer. Patel’s critique resonates with the growing concerns among legal experts regarding the impact of popular cinema on the public’s perception and understanding of the justice system.
In addition to denouncing movies that promote detrimental themes, Patel also acknowledged the prevalent negative portrayal of the police force, often depicted as bullies, corrupt, and unaccountable. He stressed that this perception extends to individuals in various spheres of public life, including judges, politicians, and journalists.
Furthermore, Patel praised the endeavors of Prakash Singh, the former Director General of Police in Uttar Pradesh. Singh had initiated a Public Interest Litigation in the Supreme Court, advocating for reforms in police operations. Patel commended Singh’s unwavering dedication to police reform, a pursuit that culminated in the landmark 2006 police reform ruling.
In a time when popular culture significantly shapes public perception, it becomes imperative to critically assess the messages conveyed by films. Through thoughtful dialogues about the influence of these messages, society can strive for a more informed and enlightened comprehension of justice and the rule of law.