The announcement of the web series ‘Scam 2010: The Subrata Roy Saga’ has not only sparked controversy but also ignited a significant debate. The series, announced by acclaimed filmmaker Hansal Mehta, is based on the life of Subrata Roy, the founder of Sahara India Pariwar.
The Sahara Group has taken strong exception to the portrayal of their late founder and the use of the term ‘Scam’ in the title, making this a matter of great importance.
The Legal Threat Looms
In a strongly worded statement, the Sahara Group has issued a serious legal threat against all individuals and parties involved in the making of the series. They have termed the portrayal illegal and have sought advice on suitable legal action.
The group has expressed its displeasure over the depiction of the late founder and the use of the term ‘Scam’ in the title, terming the act as ‘abusive and grossly condemnable’, aimed at gaining cheap publicity.
“An abusive and grossly condemnable act has been demonstrated by the makers of ‘Scam‘ to achieve cheap and wide publicity, by announcing to unveil ‘Scam 2010: The Subrata Roy Saga.‘ Sahara India Pariwar condemns such acts of all the individuals and parties involved and shall resist their offending behaviour. In this regard, the aggrieved members are seeking advice to take suitable legal action against the Producer, Director, and all those involved in making the illegal portrayal.”
The Court Case In Question
The Sahara Group has highlighted that the dispute between SEBI and Sahara is still pending in the Supreme Court, adding a layer of complexity to the situation.
They have warned that any attempt to influence the proceedings would attract ‘contempt of court’. This legal backdrop further complicates the matter, as the series is based on a subject that is still subjudice.
The Defamation Claim
The Sahara Group has taken strong exception to the use of the word ‘scam’ in the title of the series. They have termed it defamatory and damaging to the reputation of Subrata Roy and the Sahara India Pariwar.
This claim raises questions about the freedom of expression and the responsibility of filmmakers to portray real-life events and personalities. Hansal Mehta Claims:
“I am shooting in the UK. I am not aware of this. A relevant response will be provided by the relevant parties.”
The Series In Spotlight
‘Scam 2010: The Subrata Roy Saga’ is the third show in a series about Indian financial scandals. The series follows ‘Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story’ and ‘Scam 2003: The Telgi Story’.
It is based on Tamal Bandyopadhyay’s book Sahara: the Untold Story. The announcement of the series has stirred controversy, with the Sahara Group threatening legal action against the makers.