Ali Gul Leghari-Johi
In the context of democracies, it’s crucial to draw a meaningful comparison between India and Pakistan, two South Asian neighbors. Their contrasting approaches to freedom of expression through various forms of media, including social media, dramas, and movies, highlight significant differences and their impact on their societies. India, often hailed as the world’s largest democracy, distinguishes itself by its openness to a diverse range of films that challenge the status quo. The Indian censor boards and government routinely grant permissions for the release of films that unflinchingly expose the darker side of politics and systemic issues. These cinematic works serve as a reflection of the nation’s realities, highlighting the challenges faced by its citizens and critiquing governance deficiencies. A recent illustration of this phenomenon is the success of Bollywood movie “Jawan,” which not only set records at the box office but also illuminated critical societal issues, including farmer distress, burdensome loans, inadequate healthcare, and the pivotal role of voting in a democracy. The capacity of cinema to educate and awaken the masses goes beyond literacy levels, rendering it a potent instrument for civic engagement. India’s thriving film industry serves as a testament to the significant impact of movies on public discourse and, importantly, on the nation’s economy. In sharp contrast, Pakistan contends with a more restrictive environment where access to information about one’s rights is often suppressed. A noteworthy case in point is Mr. Asher Azeem’s film, “Maalik,” produced in 2016. Despite receiving clearance from all censor boards, the film fell victim to a government ban due to its depiction of a former chief minister embroiled in corruption and opulence. Only after significant editing was the movie granted a local release, with international distribution still out of reach. This discrepancy in how films critiquing the political establishment are handled underscores a more extensive issue. Suppressing information about political realities impedes the essence of democracy, a challenge that Pakistan faces. Pakistan can take inspiration from its neighbor, India, where governance and institutional shortcomings are openly acknowledged and critiqued, often leading to constructive change. Instead of resorting to censorship to maintain an illusion, Pakistan could gain from adopting a more transparent approach that empowers its citizens with information and demands accountability from its institutions. In conclusion, the contrasting approaches to freedom of expression through cinema in India and Pakistan highlight the influential role of media in shaping the democratic narrative. India’s willingness to embrace criticism and self-reflection, exemplified by films like “Jawan,” serves as a shining example of democratic values. In contrast, Pakistan’s tendency towards censorship hinders meaningful dialogue and progress. Encouraging an open discourse on governance and societal issues is imperative for both nations to fortify their democratic foundations.
