A group of 108 lawyers from across the country has written to President Droupadi Murmu, urging the revocation of the Padma Shri conferred upon film and television producer Ekta Kapoor, alleging that her content is laden with “obscene and horrendous pornographic material.”
The lawyers, in their letter addressed to the Rashtrapati Bhavan, expressed deep concern over Kapoor’s web series, arguing that they have significantly “degraded moral values” and tarnished Indian cultural traditions. The signatories claim that certain web series produced under her banner have not only maligned familial relationships but also shown disrespect toward the nation’s social and ethical fabric.
According to the letter, the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honour, is bestowed upon individuals for their exceptional contributions in their respective fields while making a positive societal impact. However, the lawyers contend that allowing Kapoor to retain this honour indirectly legitimises and endorses content that is “morally reprehensible” and harmful to society.
Appeal by 108 Advocates from Across Bharat for Revocation of Padma Shri Award Conferred on Ekta Kapoor
On behalf of 108 advocates across Bharat, we appeal to the Hon’ble President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) to revoke the Padma Shri award conferred on @EktaaRKapoor. The Padma… pic.twitter.com/qoEbqzXuZL
— Amita Sachdeva, Advocate (@SachdevaAmita) February 18, 2025
“Bestowing such a prestigious honour upon someone whose work promotes obscenity and violates numerous laws undermines the very essence of the award,” the letter states.
The signatories have also provided details of specific web series produced by Kapoor that, according to them, breach various legal provisions. They argue that revoking the Padma Shri would serve as a strong message, reinforcing the government’s commitment to upholding India’s cultural ethos and ethical standards.
The letter specifically criticises ALTT, Kapoor’s streaming platform, for allegedly broadcasting content that would not even qualify for an ‘A’ certificate under the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) regulations if released in cinema halls. The lawyers argue that several shows on the platform openly violate existing laws, guidelines, and codes that regulate or penalise the production and distribution of obscene and pornographic material in India.
“The content of these films and web series being streamed on Ekta Kapoor’s ALTT is so horrendous, obscene, and unlawful that they would not even be approved for screening with an ‘A’ certificate in cinema halls by the CBFC,” the letter states.
The demand for revocation of the Padma Shri comes amid previous controversies surrounding Kapoor’s digital content, with critics accusing her of pushing explicit material under the guise of entertainment. The signatories have urged President Murmu to take immediate action to preserve the sanctity of the award.
This is not the first time Ekta Kapoor has faced backlash for her content. Earlier, she was embroiled in legal battles over alleged disrespectful portrayals in her productions. The latest letter from legal professionals intensifies the debate over censorship, artistic freedom, and the ethical responsibilities of content creators in India.
