FIR against ‘Yadav Ji Ki Love Story’ team as Yadav community protests in UP

MEERUT: An FIR was registered against the producer, director and lead actors of the upcoming film ‘Yadav Ji Ki Love Story' in Sambhal following protests by members of the Yadav community and several political groups. The film is slated for release on Feb 27.Superintendent of police KK Bishnoi said film producer Sandeep Tomar, director Ankit Bhadana and actors Pragati Tiwari and Vishal Mohan have been booked under BNS section 353(2) (promoting enmity or ill-will between groups)."We have issued notices to the accused to join the investigation. We are expediting the probe ahead of the release. It is not clear where the movie was shot," said Bishnoi.The case stems from a complaint by one Arvind Yadav (25), a local resident who alleged that the "film misrepresents the community's culture and could disturb social harmony.""The trailer of the film depicts a girl from our community in a relationship with a man belonging to another religion. Though the story is presented as fiction, it deeply hurts the sentiments of our community members. We believe that such portrayal has the potential to create misunderstanding and convey an inappropriate message in society. We demand a ban on the release and screening of this film to prevent any disturbance to social harmony," Yadav told TOI.Meanwhile, actor Pragati Tiwari, who plays the lead role, said she was deeply hurt by the ongoing protests, adding that her intention was never to comment on or offend any community. "This film is a fictional romantic love triangle. It does not promote or disrespect any caste, religion or community. The project is certified for release by the Central Board of Film Certification, and the title is officially registered with the Indian Motion Picture Producers' Association.""As an actor, my responsibility is to portray the character written for me with honesty and integrity. I was not involved in the writing or titling of the film, but I stand by the fact that the story itself does not intend harm or division. I sincerely respect all communities and request people to watch the film before forming any opinion," Tiwari wrote on social media.