KOCHI: Producer Antony Perumbavoor responded to the Empuraan controversy for the first time since the movie’s release on Thursday. Antony shielded Prithviraj, and took responsibility for the whole issue going out of control. The producer admitted that the decision to re-edit the movie was not under pressure.

“There is no need to single out and attack Prithviraj. Mohanlal and I knew the entire story of the film. There is no need to churn out a big controversy.

The re-editing was a collective decision, and there was no pressure. We will talk with Murali Gopy soon. I don't think the controversy is a setback. We should take everything positively. It would be good if we are ready to see a movie as a movie. Very little change has been made in Empuraan,” said Antony Perumbavoor.

The original version of Empuraan, released on the 27th, underwent 17 cuts. The main villain's name was changed from Bajrangi to Balraj, with the name redubbed in 18 places. Scenes depicting women being raped were removed. The NIA logo was omitted, and a scene where the villain calls the Union Home Minister was also cut.

The producers themselves approached the Censor Board after Sangh Parivar organisations raised objections and demanded changes. The re-censoring process was completed on Sunday, despite it being a holiday. Meanwhile, audiences continue to watch the original version in theatres today. CPM State Secretary M.V. Govindan and Minister Saji Cherian were among those who came to watch the film.