[Reader-list] Clarification on the matter of allegedly Cancelled Screenings

[Shuddhabrata Sengupta]

Dear All,

This is just by way of clarification of something that has disturbed
many on this list, because it also involves an attack on the character
and reputation of a person.

A particular posting, made by Rashneek Kher <Someone "well connected"
got RIK screening Cancelled> made on the 25th of August said that
Ashok Pandita's film was cancelled after being confirmed for screening
at Kamala Nehru College, allegedly at the behest of Sanjay Kak.

On being requested to provide a clarification regarding this matter the
faculty in charge of Wide Angle Film Society and the Principal of Kamala
Nehru College have communicated to me that -

"The Wide Angle Film Society of Kamala Nehru College was not prevailed
upon by any individual or individuals to schedule or cancel any film.
The college and Wide Angle Society are fully within their rights to show
  or cancel any film screening without having to be accountable to any
individual or body."

This clearly indicates that the charge made on this list against the
person concerned (Sanjay Kak), that he used 'connections' to stop a
screening and arrange one of his own film is unsubstantiated and
baseless. I knew this for a fact as early as Friday, but wanted to wait
until I have a formalcommunication with the relevant people concerned in
Kamala Nehru College before making any statements in this regard.

I think communications of this nature are serious attacks on the dignity
of this list and its members, and I hope that everyone will join me in
insisting that list members desist from such all such allegations and
attacks, in the interests of a healthy climate of freedom of expression
that we all enjoy on this list.

regards,

Shuddha