Haq Movie: Yami Gautam Confirms No Censorship Cuts in UAE, Based on Shah Bano Case

Actor Yami Gautam has clarified that her upcoming courtroom drama Haq, inspired by the historic Shah Bano Begum case, has not faced any censorship challenges in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The film has officially been cleared for audiences aged 15 and above, allowing a wider segment of viewers to witness this powerful retelling of a landmark legal battle.

Set to release theatrically on November 7, Haq features an ensemble cast including Emraan Hashmi, Sheeba Chaddha, and Vartika Singh. The movie aims to depict a crucial chapter in India’s judicial history, focusing on women’s rights, religion, and justice without targeting or offending any particular community.

In an interview with Times Now, Gautam emphasized that the movie seeks to highlight social realities respectfully. She stated, “This film is not made to antagonise anyone. If the UAE has cleared it without any cuts, it shows that the story is balanced and not biased towards any community.”

Gautam plays Shazia Bano, while Hashmi portrays her husband, Lawyer Abbas Khan. Directed by Suparn Varma, Haq draws inspiration from Jigna Vora’s book “Bano: Bharat Ki Beti”, which revisits the 1985 Supreme Court judgment in Mohd. Ahmed Khan vs Shah Bano Begum, a case that redefined maintenance rights for Muslim women under Indian law.

The Shah Bano case became a turning point in Indian legal and political discourse, sparking national debates on women’s rights, religious freedom, and constitutional equality. The film’s portrayal promises an authentic representation of the emotional and societal complexities that shaped the verdict.

Yami further added, “Without even seeing the film, people have formed opinions. But the story is about humanity, law, and justice — not about any one community.”

Produced by Junglee Pictures, in collaboration with Insomnia Films and Baweja Studios, Haq is expected to reignite conversations around gender justice and the separation of religion from judicial principles.

The film’s uncut release in the UAE is being viewed as a positive indicator of its balanced storytelling. By receiving a 15+ classification, Haq is poised for international acceptance and critical discourse. The movie’s anticipated release could reignite public discussion on the intersection of faith, law, and gender equality in modern India.