India blocks Oscar-nominated film over Israel ties

India's Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has blocked the theatrical release of "The Voice of Hind Rajab," an Oscar-nominated docudrama about the killing of five-year-old Palestinian girl Hind Rajab by Israeli forces. Distributor Manoj Nandwana stated a CBFC member cited concerns that the film would "hamper India's relations with Israel," despite the film having been released internationally including in Israel. Nandwana expressed confusion, noting the film had previously been screened at an international festival in Kolkata. The decision follows India's expanding defense and technology ties with Israel while maintaining diplomatic relations with Palestine. Opposition leader Shashi Tharoor condemned the ban as "disgraceful," arguing it violates India's democratic freedom of expression and should not be influenced by foreign relations.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/03/21/india-blocks-release-of-oscar-nominated-gaza-film/