Producer of 'Udaipur Files' gets death threats; police detain youth, probe Bangladeshi, Pakistani links

SP Yogesh Goyal said Shahid has been detained and interrogated, adding police are probing if the threats are isolated or a part of broader links.

Pic of both sons of Kanhaiyalal Tailor with pic of father at Udaipur Cinema hall at the time of first show of the film. (Photo | Special Arrangement)

JAIPUR: Film producer Amit Jani, who has backed Udaipur Files based on the brutal murder of Kanhaiyalal, has once again received threatening comments on social media. Police have detained a youth in connection with the matter and launched an investigation.

According to officials, Jani was recently admitted to a private hospital after complaining of chest pain during his visit to Ahmedabad and Udaipur for the film’s release. On being discharged on Wednesday, he alleged that Bangladeshi elements were trying to mislead locals and instigate violence against him.

“Like Kanhaiyalal, I am also being provoked to be murdered,” he claimed.

A threatening comment was allegedly posted by a man identified as Mohammad Shahid. Acting on Jani’s complaint, police detained Shahid for questioning.

Jani further alleged that he received a chilling message reading, “We are 700 meters away and will send tiffin,” which he interpreted as a bomb threat. In another instance, a Bangladeshi youth named Hamad reportedly commented, “Tiffin is expensive, send a knife.”

Superintendent of Police Yogesh Goyal confirmed that Shahid has been taken into custody and interrogated. “We are probing whether these are simply online threats or connected to a larger network. Given the allegations of Pakistani and Bangladeshi links, the matter is being taken very seriously,” he said. Police sources added that the threats have created an atmosphere of tension in Udaipur.

Udaipur Files, directed by Bharat S Srinet and Jayant Sinha and produced by Amit Jani, features Vijay Raaz as Kanhaiyalal, with Rajneesh Duggal and Preeti Jhangiani in key roles.

The film revisits the horrific incident of June 28, 2022, when tailor Kanhaiya Lal Teli was beheaded in Udaipur by two men after he shared a social media post supporting BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma. The accused had filmed the act and circulated the video online, triggering nationwide outrage.

The film’s release reignited political debate. Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot had accused the Centre of delaying justice to Kanhaiyalal’s family.