Rohan Umak
Lawrence Bishnoi web series banned: The Union government on Friday advised ZEE5 to withhold the release of its upcoming documentary series, ‘Lawrence of Punjab,’ centred on the jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, citing concerns over public order. The show was slated to premiere on April 27.
Reports claimed that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) issued the advisory to the entertainment company following inputs from the Punjab Police, which warned that the series could prompt a wave of unrest in the state. Officials underlined the sensitivity surrounding gangster-related issues in Punjab, while cautioning that such content may provoke strong reactions from the public.
Punjab Congress Chief approached HC earlier
Earlier, Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, the chief of the Punjab unit of the Congress party, approached the Punjab and Haryana High Court (HC) seeking a ban on the series. He filed a petition, in which he contended that the show risked glorifying criminal culture and could influence the youth adversely.
During the hearing on Friday, the Centre’s legal representatives, including Additional Solicitor General Satya Pal Jain, submitted the Ministry’s communication before the court. Following the advisory, the petitioner’s counsel informed the bench that their concerns had been addressed, resulting in the disposal of the plea.
Lawrence Bishnoi web series banned: Concerns mount over glorification of crime
The MIB, in its communication, shed light on potential dangers of content that may romanticise organised crime. It observed that the documentary could undermine ongoing law enforcement efforts against gangsterism and may contribute to a deterioration of the law and order situation.
The advisory read, “The release of the series is likely to lead to heightened tensions and adverse implications,” adding that such portrayals might negatively influence impressionable audiences by normalising criminal behaviour.
Web series inspired by Oscar winning documentary
The title of the banned web series is inspired by an Oscar-winning documentary named ‘Lawrence of Arabia,’ which explores the rise of Lawrence Bishnoi. Bishnoi gained notoriety for alleged involvement in high-profile criminal plots, and was also involved in issuing threats to Bollywood actor Salman Khan.
The makers of the series had earlier described it as an exploration of criminal identity shaped by student politics, cultural influences and media amplifications. However, authorities have turned wary of its potential impact on the society.
