India Blocks Release of Oscar-Nominated 'The Voice of Hind Rajab' Over ‘Political Sensitivities’

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New Delhi: India’s Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has blocked the release of Oscar-nominated film The Voice of Hind Rajab, citing concerns over political sensitivities and potential diplomatic implications.

Local distributors said the decision was influenced by worries that the film could impact India’s relationship with Israel.

Directed by Kaouther Ben Hania, the docudrama follows efforts by the Palestinian Red Crescent Society to rescue six-year-old Hind Rajab, who was trapped in a vehicle in Gaza during military operations by the Israel Defence Forces.

The film premiered at the Venice International Film Festival, where it won the Grand Jury Prize and several other awards, receiving widespread international acclaim. It later saw theatrical releases in countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, and France.

Mumbai-based distributor Manoj Nandwana said the film was deemed ‘very sensitive’ by the CBFC. He had initially planned to release it in India in early March, ahead of the Oscars, but clearance was ultimately denied.

Nandwana said he was informally told that screening the film could strain India’s diplomatic ties with Israel, a claim he disputed, noting the strength of bilateral relations.

The move comes despite growing international recognition for the film and highlights the CBFC’s cautious approach toward politically sensitive content. It also follows similar decisions in recent years, including restrictions on films addressing contentious social and political themes.