Manish Gupta reflects on four years of 'SECTION 375': A film that became a statement against the injustice of gender-biased laws

It has been four years since SECTION 375' hit the theatres, a thought-provoking film that left an indelible mark on the minds of audiences across the nation. As the film celebrates its fourth anniversary, story, screenplay and dialogue writer of the film Manish Gupta takes us into a journey of the film’s inception. 

'SECTION 375' is a gripping courtroom drama that delves into the complexities of India's legal system, particularly concerning fake rape cases. Loosely based on the Shiney Ahuja case, the film's inception dates back to Manish's personal connection with Shiney and his wife Anupam. Manish and Shiney were set to collaborate on a film about Charles Sobhraj until Shiney's unexpected arrest disrupted those plans. 

Recalling those tumultuous times, Manish vividly recounts his visit to the Oshiwara police station when Shiney was arrested, “It’s been four years since my film ‘SECTION 375’ released, and I am glad that the film is still fresh in people’s memories. I invested three years of my life researching and writing the script which was loosely based on the Shiney Ahuja case. I knew Shiney and his wife Anupam personally, and I used to visit their home in Oshiwara, Andheri because at that time, Shiney and I were supposed to do a film based on Charles Sobhraj, but Shiney got arrested and the film was shelved. When Shiney was arrested, I along with some common friends rushed to the Oshiwara police station where Shiney was being held. But the DCP flatly told me that they can’t let Shiney go. The DCP said that intercourse between Shiney and his female maid servant has been established, but it is not clear as yet whether it was forced or consensual.” 

Manish further added, “I argued with the DCP that if you are not sure whether sex had happened forcibly or consensually, then kindly release Shiney on the basis of a benefit of doubt. But the DCP explained that since a woman has filed a rape complaint, the police is compelled by law to arrest the man. This was my firsthand introduction to how unfair and gender-biased laws in India are.” 

Over three painstaking years, Manish delved into extensive research, attending 167 court hearings, meeting with lawyers, judges, accused men, and rape survivors. What he discovered during this journey was startling - approximately 80% of registered rape cases in India are filed with ulterior motives, including vengeance, extortion, and family pressure. 
This grim reality served as the foundation for the script of 'SECTION 375,' a film that tackles the sensitive issue of false rape accusations. The story unravels within the confines of a courtroom, where two talented lawyers, played brilliantly by Akshaye Khanna and Richa Chadha, battle it out to uncover the truth. Manish Gupta's meticulous research and attention to detail shine through in the film, making it a hard-hitting and thought-provoking cinematic experience. 
 
The impact of 'SECTION 375' was felt not only by audiences but also within the film industry. Manish's screenplay earned him a nomination for Best Screenplay at the prestigious 2020 Filmfare Awards, a testament to his dedication and commitment to addressing important societal issues through cinema. 
As 'SECTION 375' marks its fourth anniversary, it continues to resonate with viewers. Manish Gupta's dedication to shedding light on this critical issue that has left a lasting legacy in the world of Indian cinema.