Hansal Mehta criticizes Omar Abdullah’s “regressive” criticism on the Maharani shoot in the J&K Assembly, saying “because of this attitude…”

The Maharani shooting within the J&K legislature was attacked by Omar Abdullah, the former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and vice-president of the National Conference. It was deemed “an absolute shame” by him.

“The true face of ‘the mother of democracy’ is that, once elected representatives of all parties, religions, backgrounds, and parts of J&K legislated on matters of great importance, now it’s used as a set by extras and actors for TV dramas,” the person tweeted. How unfortunate that the J&K administration, led by the BJP, has brought down the emblem of democracy, where they used to sit and rule, to this awful state of things. I had the honor of working in their office for six years, and they even have a phony chief marketing officer. What an absolute shame!!!!”

In response, Hansal remarked, “Why is it a shame? How does the “mother of democracy” or democracy itself suffer from the shooting of a drama? Every person on a film set including actors, background actors(called ‘extras’ by you) are all citizens of this nation and have every right to work with dignity and deserve respect and understanding- at least from someone as educated as yourself.”

“We are allowed to shoot in public spaces, government buildings, council halls, and similar venues all over the world,” he said. India is seen as an unfavorable filming destination due of this inhospitable attitude, which is why we often opt to shoot elsewhere. Although you have my utmost respect, this seems very inconsiderate, outdated, and narrow-minded.”

In response, one of the Twitter users said, “Don’t you realize he is saying this because the Assembly is not being used for its main purpose?” in response to him. I would agree with your reasoning if it were. These days, it’s merely a stunning structure used as the setting for made-up television series and films.”

In response, the director responded, “Written in such derogatory tone? Make your point, but don’t sacrifice someone else’s dignity in the process.” He said in a another tweet, “Thank you, but it wouldn’t have infuriated me if it had been expressed more clearly. Perhaps your vast knowledge is beyond me.”