Row over Ghooskhor Pandat reaches top court (Supreme Court) as judges question its impact on community dignity
New Delhi: The Supreme Court has put the release of the Netflix film Ghooskhor Pandat on hold and told the makers that it will not allow the movie to be released unless they change its title. The court said the name of the film appears to insult a section of society and could affect morality and public order.
A bench of Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan heard a public interest litigation filed against the film. After listening to the arguments, the court issued notices to the Centre, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), and filmmaker Neeraj Pandey. The next hearing will take place on February 19, 2026.
Court Questions the Title
During the hearing, the judges said that freedom of speech is not unlimited. They made it clear that creative freedom cannot be used to disrespect or denigrate any community.
The court observed that linking the word “Ghooskhor,” which means bribe-taker, with “Pandat” could hurt the dignity of a respected caste group. It said such a title may disturb social harmony and affect public order.
The bench clearly stated that the film will not be allowed to release on Netflix unless the makers inform the court about a change in title. The filmmakers have also been asked to file an affidavit stating that the movie does not insult any community.
PIL Filed by Brahmin Group Member
The case began after Atul Mishra, National Organisation Secretary of the Brahman Samaj of India, filed a public interest litigation. He argued that the title is offensive and directly associates the Brahmin community with corruption.
In his petition, he said the name creates a negative stereotype and damages the image of a respected community. He also claimed that such portrayal could increase caste-based tension and disturb communal harmony.
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Notices to Centre and CBFC
The Supreme Court issued formal notices to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the CBFC, and the film’s makers. The court asked them to respond and explain their position before the next hearing.
The judges also indicated that authorities must ensure that films do not harm public order or social balance.
Protests and FIR
The controversy had already sparked protests before the matter reached the Supreme Court. Several Brahmin organisations objected to the title and demanded action.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) also criticised the film and called the title disrespectful. In Lucknow, police registered an FIR over the issue after complaints were filed.
Political reactions followed as well. BSP chief Mayawati publicly criticised the film and called its portrayal wrong and insulting to the Brahmin community.
Makers Remove Promotions
As the controversy grew, Netflix and the film’s team removed promotional material, including the trailer.
Filmmaker Neeraj Pandey and actor Manoj Bajpayee released statements saying that the film does not target any community and that the story is fictional. They said they did not intend to hurt anyone’s sentiments.
However, the Supreme Court pointed out that the concern is mainly about the title and its possible social impact.
About the Film
Directed by Neeraj Pandey, Ghooskhor Pandat is a Netflix-backed project starring Manoj Bajpayee. The cast also includes Nushrat Bharuccha, Saqib Saleem, Akshay Oberoi and Divya Dutta in key roles.
Netflix India announced the film as part of its 2026 slate. The makers describe it as a fictional cop drama. Despite this, the controversy has focused mainly on the name of the film rather than its storyline.
Next Hearing on February 19
The Supreme Court will hear the case again on February 19, 2026. The filmmakers must inform the court whether they are ready to change the title and submit an affidavit.
Until the court gives further directions, the release of the film on Netflix remains uncertain.
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