Streaming platform Netflix informed the Delhi High Court that a change has been incorporated in an English subtitle of Sacred Games to remedy an alleged insult to former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
The web series contains a scene in the fourth episode in which lead actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui is seen referring to Gandhi as a ‘fattu’ (coward). However, the subtitle uses an expletive instead.
“Now, we are using word ‘wimp’ as the English translation of Hindi word ‘fattu’,” the media services provider’s counsel told a bench of Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Chander Shekhar.
Responding to the bench’s query about the meaning of ‘fattu’, the counsel said it means ‘coward’.
The court questioned whether they have correctly translated the word in the subtitle and asked Netflix to examine such parts in the web series.
However, the court said that it did not want to curtail the freedom of speech and expression.
“Criticism or even expression of dissatisfaction is permissible. I do not think anyone can have objection to it,” the bench said.
The court remarked that the freedom of speech is on a higher pedestal even when someone is criticising people associated with politics, adding that it is the viewer’s choice what they want to see.
The court reiterated its queries as to whether the plea could be entertained as a Public Interest Litigation and asked the petitioner to satisfy how the court could intervene.
The PIL — filed by lawyer Nikhil Bhalla through advocate Shashank Garg — sought the removal of two contents that according to him “tarnished” the image of the former Prime Minister.
The lawyer claimed that the series incorrectly depicted historical events in India such as Bofors arms scandal, communal riots and more.
During the course of hearing, the lawyer apprised the court that Rajiv Gandhi’s son and Congress President Rahul Gandhi had not raised any objection to the series and supported freedom of speech.
However, the court warned Netflix not to take it for granted and remain careful while broadcasting any series.
The court listed the matter for August 6.
