COAI Objects to Defamatory Depiction Of Cellphones In “2.0”

COAI has written to CBFC highlighting its concerns on the movie “2.0”. The movie including its teasers, trailers and other promotional videos depict mobile phones and mobile towers in a defamatory manner. The promotional videos are based on the theme that electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions from mobile phones and towers are harmful to living creatures and the environment including birds and human beings which will create unfounded fear and mass paranoia by spreading misinformation about the adverse impact of mobile towers and mobile phones.

COAI alleges this is defamatory to COAI and its members, endangers public order, presents anti-scientific attitudes, constitutes offences including under various sections of the IPC and is in violation of the provisions of the Cinematograph Act, 1952. It is against the public interest as it constitutes offences under section 268 (public nuisance), section 505 (statements conducing to public mischief) and section 499 (defamation) of the IPC and stands to prejudice the ongoing proceedings before the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India over whether or not mobile towers have any harmful effects.

We have requested CBFC that they examine the film with due regard to our concerns and direct that the movie be provided to us in order to enable us a fair opportunity to raise our concerns fully and adequately. We have further requested the Censor Board to revoke the certification already granted including for the teaser, trailer and other promotional video and Tamil language version of the film with immediate effect until such time as CBFC makes a determination on our submission. We have requested that the exhibition of the movie be suspended in the meantime. – CT Bureau