India blocks Gaza documentary on martyred Palestinian girl over Israel concerns
New Delhi: The Indian release of the Oscar-nominated documentary “The Voice of Hind Rajab”, based on a tragic incident during Israeli aggression in Gaza, has been blocked after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) refused clearance.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Manoj Nandwana, head of Mumbai-based Jai Viratra Entertainment, said the CBFC declined certification due to the sensitive nature of the film. He added that a board member reportedly expressed concern that releasing the film could strain India’s diplomatic ties with Israel.
“If it gets released, it would break up the India-Israel relationship,” Nandwana quoted the board member as saying.
The documentary, submitted for approval in February and scheduled for release on March 6 ahead of the Academy Awards, tells the story of six-year-old Palestinian girl Hind Rajab, who was trapped in a car during Israeli military action in Gaza in January 2024. The film revolves around the efforts of the Palestinian Red Crescent Society to reach the girl after a call for help from the vehicle. Tragically, Hind Rajab, her family members, and two paramedics sent to save her were killed, drawing international attention and raising concerns over civilian casualties in the conflict.
