MSG Row: Prohibitory orders issued in Haryana town

Chandigarh, Jan 19 (IANS) Authorities in Haryana's Sirsa district Monday issued prohibitory orders in certain areas of Sirsa town in view of tension between the Sikh community and Dera Sacha Sauda sect followers over the release of controversial movie "MSG (Messenger of God)".

The ban on assembly of five or more people at one place was imposed in view of tension building up after Sikh groups sought a ban on screening of the movie, which stars sect chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh.

Sikh groups tried to take out a protest march in Sirsa town Monday.

The sect headquarters is located close to Sirsa town and thousands of sect followers live in the town and surrounding areas.

The opposition Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) in Haryana has been holding protests against the movie.

The Punjab government Saturday announced a ban on the film's screening in the state.

Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal said Monday said that the ban was imposed following an advisory from central agencies that the movie could lead to law and order problem.

"MSG" was to be released on Jan 16 but it did not get clearance from the censor board in time. The new date of release of the movie has not been finalised yet.

The sect claims that the movie is not against any religion, group or people and was only highlighting social evils.