JAIPUR: Congress leader Pratap Singh Kachariyawas , a Rajput himself, also jumped into the bandwagon of many Rajput organisations demanding a ban on the controversial film 'Padmavati' alleging that the film distorts history.

He said, the film, which is slated for a December 1 release, should not be allowed to exhibit in India or outside before a special screening for the historians first.

The Jauhar Smriti Sansthan (JSS), a research and social group formed in 1950 with the aim of reviving pride in Mewar's rulers had called a bandh in Chittorgarh on Friday to protest the portrayal of the 13-14 century queen of Chittorgarh in the film.

Addressing a press conference on Sunday, Kachariyawas said, Padmavati is a symbol of dignity and honour of glorious Indian history. "She performed 'Jauhar' (self-immolation) with 16,000 other women belonging to all caste and communities after Delhi Sultan Alauddin khilji defeated her husband Rawal Rattan Singh of Chittor save honour.

"It is the responsibility of the state and the Central governments that the film does not distort history. If it was found that the film is not confirming to history it has to be banned," he demanded. Khachariyawas , who is the president of Congress's Jaipur (City) unit, made the demand in personal capacity with the state Congress unit maintaining a distance.

He said, filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali wanted to sensationalise the subject by distorting history is unacceptable. He also castigated Union minister for information and broadcasting Smriti Irani coming to the aid of the filmmaker.

The Congress leader said, if the film tries to tarnish the character, bravery and sacrifice of women, it would not be allowed to be exhibited.

He further said that the government would be solely responsible if the law and order situation in the state deteriorates after the film is released in theatres.

