Original subtitles

Tuesday, May 9, 1989 London

Fire! Fire! - Spry water! Spray water! More! More!

Put the fire off! Put the fire off!

Where is the ambulance? Get the stretcher, fast!

There she is seated!

She doesn't move or even speak!

Madam, are you alright?

Police constable, O. Connell!

Madam! We will have to take her to hospital!

I am dead!

Calla doctor, fast! - Alright, I'll call!

Want to kill me!

My god! - Sir, it began from here!

Victim jumped off from the bed, and ran away from the stairs.

All that the person touched on the...

...way, was set aflame, and the person kept screaming.

And, final fell on the lawn, outside!

So, it's like this: A man sleeps while watching T.V,

And burns himself to ashes with a cigarette.

The matter is solved. Shall I go now?

I too thought so. But...will you see it once again?

Smelling it, what do you think, sir?

Where is his wife?

I'll be back in a minute, madam!

Have some tea!

Might be very difficult, isn't it?

Boys are very naughty.

My name is James. What is your name?

Okay! No need to tell, if you don't wish to.

Kiran! - Said something?

My name. Kiran!

What happened?

Say something, girl!

What happened to you?

Kiranjeet!

What's wrong wither? Is she hurt?

Who are you? - Kiran's mother in law! Who are you?

Kiranjeet Ahluwalia!

Mrs. Ahluwalia, I am detective, Sajid Mayers.

Detective, Sajid... - Mrs. Ahluwalia, please!

Kiran, what do they want?

Mommy!

Mommy! - Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet!

Where are you taking her?

Mommy!

Would you like to drink something?

Water, or tea?

Okay!

Ahluwalia, the questioning is taped. And now it's 10:38.

Tuesday, 9th may, 1989.

My name is detective, Sajid Mayers.

And police constable James. O. Connell too is...

...in the room during the questioning.

Mrs. Ahluwalia know very well that...

...she is being questioned without the presence of a solicitor.

Mrs. Ahluwalia, last night, there was fire in your house.

Your husband was burned badly.

Do you know how the fire started?

Madam, your husband has accused you of serious crime.

Do you understand?

Do you want a Punjabi translator?

The questioning is being wound up at 10:39 am, as of now.

Come out! Come on!

Constable, do you know what it means to be a witness to a questioning?

Sorry sir! But I thought it would be...

...easy to take the statement if she...

...could understand our questions.

How long has it been since you have joined the duty?

Three or four month? - Six!

Six? And it makes so much difference. Isn't it?

You might be having so much...

...experience that you could tell me how to do my job.

Sir, I think you should keep some senior officer inside.

Look, friend! This is her acting. Okay?

I have met such people many times.

These people can give better statements that you.

But, when they get stuck in some legal trouble,

Then, they talk nonsense, in their language. - Punjabi!

What?

She only understands Punjabi, detective Sajid.

You are really smart, young man!

Look, friend! I know these people very well.

Let me handle her my way. You don't open your mouth!

Shall I tell you something?

I shall talk to the commander about your promotion.

Are you happy now?

Very good!

Ahluwalia, the questioning is taking place again.

May, 9th, 1989.

Do you recognize any of these photos?

You might recognize, surely!

Because all the three photos were taken at your house.

Mrs. Ahluwalia, that fire was not any accident. Isn't it?

Was it or not?

I am asking you something.

Alright! You don't want to speak?

I'll tell you what had happened.

You waited till he slept off.

Then you got into the room quietly.

He was drunk, so he could not even smell it. Till then...

You took that candle.

Your finger prints are on that petrol can, and on the bucket too.

So we know who it was and what it was.

We only don't know "why".

So tell me, "will you tell the truth or not?"

Why did you do it?

Kiran don't be afraid!

I know you are scared. But no one will do anything to you, here.

We only want to know what had happened that night.

I want to meet the children!

Look! Give your statement, and you can go home to your children.

I only wanted to give him pain.

Like I had got.

This is not an acceptance of crime.

She has not rejected it, either. She is the Guilty.

It's clear that she has done it.

Why will she do like this?

Who knows, she must have eaten some sour thing. Or...

Sajid, this would be enough. It's enough to accuse.

Take her into custody!

Today's news, "Woman burns husband alive". Woman burns husband alive".

Hey, this is my copier.

Yes, it was yours. Now it's of the bank. - What?

Do without it only, now!

Jamila, what is all this? - I know! I know!

Don't worry! I Shall handle it.

How will we make the posters with the Xerox machine?

I shall do that from my son in law.

At least it will not spoil my walls.

Very funny! - It's not a big deal, Radha!

They took it away when we needed it very much.

What you mean?

Look! This is our next case!

Found it so soon?

You found a case as soon as you stepped into London?

Shut up, Asha! - Are you joking?

We are here for helpless women, not for the guilty.

That's what I am saying.

How do you know that she was innocent?

Tel me, why will someone burn her husband?

Because they had no coal, to burn?

We cannot take a cases only because you like it.

And, we don't have that much money.

And, she has got a lawyer too.

Where is the fax machine gone?

Come on, everyone come out!

There's lot of work!

Okay! Tell me as I take your name.

Adam Sabrina! - Yes.

Ahluwalia Kiranjeet!

Such a big, long name.

Answer! - Yes.

Next time, loudly!

Blair Jacqueline. - Yes, it's me!

Came again?

It's my in law's place.

Roberts Jinaina. - Yes.

Come on, inside now!

Come on! Make it fast!

Listen carefully now.

This is the jail's rule book.

Whatever you want to know is written in it.

Keep this with you always.

Sit there!

Alhu...oh! You, go inside!

Deposit everything, please!

Take out your jewelry, please!

All that too!

Welcome to the jail, girls!

These racks are better than the earlier ones.

Blair, go inside!

Not you, princess! Come with me!

Home sweet home!

Patience, Kiran! Patience!

Carefully! Alright! Your head!

Give me your hand! I got it! Close the door!

Deepak, where have you brought me?

I'll show you!

Just wait a minute!

Okay! Ready! Here!

For us? - For you!

For our children!

Where are you lost? Go inside!

It's day!

A new morning in heaven!

Don't be scared! - Who are you?

Your jail mate! Name is Ronnie!

What you thought, this 5 star suite is for you alone?

Do you have a name?

Will you tell your name, or should I give you a name?

Kiran!

Kiran, you were not there for breakfast.

I thought you might be hungry.

Okay! As you wish!

Wow! How did all this happen?

So, what was the expense?

Nothing! But we'll have to pay 15 pounds extra.

From where will pay 15 pounds?

Tea? - We have to do that much.

Look! They are very serious this time.

We have to be careful next time.

What do you people know what all...

...I have done to increase the lease of this place.

The banks will not help a loss making company next time.

It is against their philosophy.

Good that you are a lawyer for tenants, and not for a bank.

How long will this go on? Tell me!

Loss for the sake of principles?

You can say that, there can be no deals for Principles.

Again you started giving suggestions?

Shut up, Anil!

Thank you!

Mrs. Ahluwalia, I am Chris Jones, your legal solicitor.

She is Mrs. Mariam Taylor, who will argue your case.

We have brought some things for you from your mother in law's house.

Shall we straight get to the matter?

You gave a statement to the police, without a lawyer?

It's not a good thing you've done.

I wish to meet my children.

Yes. They are with your mother in law.

You will have to talk to her for it.

When can I go home?

Mrs. Ahluwalia, you have been accused of attempt to murder.

As of now you are under arrest.

If the crime is proved, you will have to be here for a long time.

Why did you do this?

I was afraid! - Of whom? Your husband? But why?

Mr. Jones, will be seated outside for some time?

Please! - Sure! Excuse me!

Bloody hell! Did he do this? That night?

Every night.

Mrs. Ahluwalia, I empathize with you, but,

The truth is that you burned your husband when he was sleeping.

And there was no danger to you at that time, from him.

We cannot plead this as, self-defense, legally.

I shall try!

Kiran, we are getting late!

Come on, make it fast. It's the 3 o' clock show.

Yes, I am coming!

Pretty, isn't it?

Bought it on sale.

You like? - What is this?

Don't copy the white girls.

It looks nonsense!

But, I... - Change it right now! Go!

Didn't you hear? Go! Immediately!

Rajeev, Sandeep, food is ready!

Hello!

[There is a call for you. Will you pay for this call?].

Finished? Then move! There are others in the line too.

Who's on the phone, grandma?

No one! Wash your hands and have your food.

Next.

What is this? - Beef masala!

Beef? I don't eat!

No problem! Take out the pieces, then it becomes veg.

Looks like the Indian girl is finally hungry.

The food here is very nice!

Right! But sister is a better cook. What say?

Come home, for food! - Yes, sure!

But, today, this treat is form me, for the new pair!

Ladies and gentleman!

Now we shall hear the next song...

...which is dedicated by Ravi Sharma, for the guests.

Mr. and Mrs. Ahluwalia!

And, you are strange! - Really?

Come on man, dance with your beautiful wife!

No! I don't do dance and all. - Oh, come on!

If Kiran wants, then you both do!

No! - It's okay!

No problem! Your husband doesn't mind!

Me? - Yes!

Let me also see.

"God has made the pairs".

"God has made the pairs".

"God has made the pairs, you say yes or no, my friend".

"This is what the music of the hermit says".

"God has made the pairs".

"God has made the pairs, you say yes or no, my friend".

"This is what the music of the hermit says".

You and Ravi got going good.

Nice man! Fun to be with!

As though he fell for you.

Silly! He was just being friendly!

Of course, he will appreciate!

It was only one dance.

That too because you insisted.

Some water? - No!

You should have married Ravi.

Perhaps you like it.

Now you are being stupid!

Oh my god! I love you so much!

I cannot see you with anyone else.

Oh god! Kiran forgive me!

Oh sorry!

Why are you staring at me?

Sorry! I shall go!

Remember this, hence forth! Understood?

A sweetie like you in the forest without a companion?

Did you understand something or no?

Think twice and stare! Else, you'll be smashed!

It's my pay. Remember, everyone has to pay!

Dourine, why do you want extra cake?

Look at your waist, it's become a room.

Shut up! Don't interfere!

No! I was just thinking.

If I had a face like yours, I'd do modelling.

I'd make some money!

You think you're smart, or what?

Compared to some.

Listen carefully, sweetie!

You too will have to pay up, henceforth!

Okay! Take your pay!

Paying back!

What are you doing, Ronnie! Again same thing?

Seems like you like being alone.

Yes, very much.

Here you are! - Thank you!

Please be seated, she'll come now! - Okay!

Hi! - Greetings!

I am Radha Dalal!

Have you heard, "South Hall Black Sisters"?

Here! You'll get lots of information in this.

Please keep it!

We are a support group for women's help.

Women, on whom their husbands commit cruelty.

Do you speak Punjabi?

No! But I do understand.

Yes, I did have a Punjabi boyfriend.

Kiranjeet, I wish to help you.

How did the fire happen?

Tell something!

Feels free! Free!

Monday, May 15, 1989

What? - Yes, control yourself.

God, please forgive me!

I know it's a bad news.

But our problem has become even worse.

I have requested the prosecution for reduction of your sentence.

But since your husband has dies,

They are accusing you of murder.

If you are convicted, you shall be sentenced to life.

[Prayer recital].

[Prayer recital].

Don't be scared. You look very pretty!

I don't even know him.

You don't need to.

He's my brother in law's friend in London.

He will take good care of you.

But, sister, what about my education?

Who's stopping you?

He doesn't mind.

Monday, December 4, 1989

This is a copy of deceased Deepak Ahluwalia's pathology report.

Tell the court about your findings!

The petrol had mixtures of other chemicals which...

...was poured on the victim, particularly, caustic soda...

...because of which the reaction happened, as usual.

I did not understand anything!

Because of this the petrol remained...

...on the body for long and the body burned for longer time.

Even the victim's flesh had got cooked on his bones.

Thank you doctor!

Your honor, if you permit, I wish to show the court exhibit-A. - Granted!

Tuesday, December 5, 1989

Sheela Ahluwalia, you have been called!

Mrs. Ahluwalia, what kind of a woman...

...is your daughter on law, in your view?

Very arrogant.

She always ruled over Deepak.

The defense lawyer says that, your son always...

...beat up the accused.

Did such kind of incident happen in front of you?

If the oil isn't hot enough, Fritters burn outside but remain uncooked inside.

It's that simple!

Why did you call up office?

Deepak, what are you doing here?

You called the office and got me ashamed.

You embarrass yourself.

He's going out with a white woman.

Her boyfriend has been making threatening calls.

Don't get my mother in between.

Mother!

Deepak, have you gone mad?

You will kill her. Leave! Want to kill her?

No! I did not see anything!

Madam, isn't it true that the accused...

...and her 2 children had come to live with you, leaving their house?

But she had taken out my child. - Right!

Because she was arrogant and ruled, too. Isn't it?

She treated Deepak like a servant.

My Lord, we have given the letter to...

...the court, as exhibit-C, which Kiran had...

...written to her husband when she had let the house.

The letter was in Punjabi, but for...

...the exhibit, it has been translated to English.

Madam, would you read this letter in the court?

Can't read English! - I can read!

Deepak, if you come back, I promise you, I will do whatever you say.

I won't drink black coffee, I won't watch television.

The children need you. Please come home.

Mrs. Ahluwalia, you think this is some arrogant woman's words?

Wednesday, December 6, 1989

You know what you have to say in your testimony?

Yes, sir! Absolutely!

Well! We have a problem.

It would not be right to say, problem.

I would say that we are not satisfied with their views.

About what?

Look! The defense lawyer says that when their client was arrested,

Then, she was in trauma.

She had lost her senses. So she does not know about her rights.

The same nonsense which these useless lawyers tell.

What you want of me?

I wish you tell, in your testimony that,

When you saw the girl first time in her house,

She was in her complete senses.

But this is not true, sir!

But you will say this only!

It is in your interest that, you tell as I've told you!

P.C. James O' Connell, now it's your turn!

Constable, you had reached the crime scene, first, that day, isn't it?

Yes, madam!

When you saw the accused, first time, behind the house,

How was her mental state, then?

I am sorry, I did not understand the question.

Listen to the question again!

That night, when you saw Mrs. Ahluwalia,

What did you feel?

Had she lost her senses,

Or, was she in her senses?

I thought she was alert, and was in her senses.

What? He's lying! Better you drag him on the streets...

You will get us all out. - You be quite!

Nothing more to ask!

Thursday, december 7, 1989

Dr. Stallman, where do you practice?

Now I am running my clinic at Green park!

And prior to this?

For 2 years, I was in council of accident and emergency center.

Do you know the accused? - Yes!

Okay! Now try to rotate with your shoulders.

Don't worry! Let me see!

Okay! The good news is that no bones have been broken.

But you will have to tie a band aid on your wrist, and your wait.

You were saying that it was because of falling.

Yes. - Our child always leaves the toys on the stairs.

I tell him, don't leave it there!

But, they are children.

I understand!

Mr. Ahluwalia, can you please sit outside till I check her up?

Why? Is it necessary?

Anyways, you will have to make the case papers.

Till then you do all that, till then I'll see your wife properly!

No! We are in a hurry. Need to pick the child up from the mother's house.

Look! Her treatment needs to be done well. If you...

Thank you for your help!

Mrs. Ahluwalia, is there something you want to tell me? - No!

Doctor, are you sure that it was a cruelty had taken place on the accused?

Yes, I am sure! - Thank you!

No more questions!

You have to tell, Kiran! Have to tell everything!

I won't be able to tell properly.

Everyone will laugh.

No one will laugh at you. The court shall make all the arrangements.

Kiran, I have no other way out.

But only hope to make you stand in...

...the box, so that at least you shall have concerns from the jury.

Can't do!

There is so much shame, in it.

What? Shame? You'll feel ashamed?

You'll feel shy to tell the truth?

Deepak should have shame, not you.

You are not at fault.

Counsel for the defense, do you have any other witness?

Defense has nothing to tell, your honor.

Okay.

Members of the jury, you can go to...

...contemplate on the matter of the case.

You have heard the witness that, the deceased...

...Deepak Ahluwalia, always did physical cruelty...

...on the accused, who is his wife.

But it looks like none of the injuries were serious ones.

What? - What?

[Audience screaming].

So strange! - What nonsense!

If you scream like this, I shall get the gallery emptied.

Taking all the proofs into consideration, the court concludes that:

After two hours from the cruelty,

The accused poured petrol, and burnt, her husband who was asleep.

This is one reason as to why we cannot ponder on self-defense,

And neither on provocation.

If you do not have a consensus on this, I shall accept the decision of the majority.

The court is adjourned till the decision of the jury.

The decision will not happen today.

It might take many days.

It can be in our favor too.

Makes no difference.

Why do you say like that?

I committed a sin.

I will have to repent now.

Has the jury come to its decision?

Yes, my Lord!

The accused shall stand!

Should the accused be found guilty as per the jury, or not?

Guilty! - What? - What are you saying? - Guilty?

She is not guilty! - Order!

Stop the shouting, else we'll have to arrest, for contempt of court!

Such madness! - Silence!

Kiranjeet Ahluwalia, you have been found guilty of murder!

You are being given life sentence!

The court is adjourned!

All stand!

Home sweet home! The same beautiful fragrance.

I am fed up of changing your room. Now stay here!

Don't lie! You like this. Give me a kiss.

Don't you know it's a misbehavior to stare?

Why? - What why?

Why did you help me?

I am no one to you. - Don't know!

Maybe, because I've always hated hooliganism.

Look at this! Prisoner play time.

One hour every day!

Good morning friends!

So nice to see you.

Ronnie, you are strange.

You were kept in the dark-room to be changed.

Have you changed or not?

Dourine is waiting to hug you.

I don't care about these silly people.

Give me a smoke!

Kiran, these are my friends! My sisters, in this palace.

This is Jackie, the great!

We've met. We came together!

I had shouted at her. Poor girl!

And this is lovely Lula!

Lula works in the canteen.

If you want to eat something special, tell her. You'll get it.

You are a vegetarian, right?

No problem! I shall take care of you.

If you ate non-veg, you'd become somewhat strong.

And finally, the hidden one, our Gladys...

As if you are the open one.

Gladys works in the laundry, ands washes everyone.

And we are crazy about her.

What are you doing here?

Sorry! I shall go!

No! No! You didn't understand!

She meant to say, "what have you done that brings you here?"

You don't look like a criminal.

You look like a bikini model. Didn't see?

Why are you here? - I thought you know it.

I have an old relation with Drugs. Understand?

She stole her neighbour's T.V to buy drugs.

Why keep it? To hatch eggs?

That fellow did not even have a DVD player.

And you?

Ronnie is the leader here.

She killed her husband!

Why? - Because he snored!

No, it's a lie!

I told him, if he hits me again, that will be the last time.

He thought I was joking. - Poor fellow!

And you have no regret?

No! I should have done this long back.

And don't even ask about Gladys.

Gladys doesn't like to say anything about her.

She takes it as a bad luck.

Because I don't enjoy showing the dirt in my house to outsiders.

But, likes to wash other's dirt!

How are you Kiran? Are you alright?

Just managing. Getting used to this place.

Okay.

I called you tell that the judge has announced the quantum of punishment.

You have been given 12 years imprisonment!

Kiran, are you listening?

So many years?

Six months of your imprisonment shall be reduced.

I will not be able to see my children for all this years?

I am so sorry!

I came every day during the trails.

The way it all happened, it was totally wrong.

Why have you come to meet?

To help you in your appeal.

But there is a lawyer.

Yes, she's done wonders for you.

Has she even began work on your appeal?

Did she even talk to someone yet?

Tel me Kiran, did she come to see you after the order was given?

The time period for appeal is passing away, Kiran.

We shall do a better lawyer.

Someone who can do something for you.

Kiran, give us a chance.

Will you really help me? - Yes.

Get my children, please!

No! - She's their mother.

I know who she is.

Never come here again! - But, please!

Do you know, she banged the door in...

...a way, my fingers would have jammed.

We might not be able to do more than this.

What are you saying, Aasha?

Should we just leave her?

And let her rot inside?

Come on! What else can you do?

The mother in law will not even let be around the children.

And, definitely not without the court order.

You are fantastic!

Hi.

Not so quickly.

Here! Read it!

What does it say? - It's a court order!

It is written that you hand over the children...

...to me so that they can meet their mother in the jail.

If I say no.

Then they will have to come to see you in jail.

Allowed to meet for only 5 minutes!

They wait at table 8.

Sunny! - Mom, I missed you!

Did you miss mom?

No! No! Don't cry! We'll come again to meet mommy!

Look Sandeep is a good boy.

No!

What happened?

Kiran said yes! - Yes!

Come on, sit inside!

Come on, Come on, sit!

Sandeep you also sit! Good boy!

Tomorrow is the appointment wither lawyer, at 2.

What are you saying?

How did you get that witch to agree?

With this court order! - What?

But this is some old order, of some other case.

You remember, she had problems reading English?

So, I took a chance!

You are very smart!

Hey baby, what have you seen, yet?

Not getting a card, man!

Letters!

Ames Carla.

Brighten Amanda.

What a joke!

Scott Veronica. - Yes. Thank you!

Look at her!

Like the cat got its cream.

Whose letter? - Might be of her daughter!

She is 14 years of age.

She is Ronnie's heart.

Till the time her appeal Is not accepted,

She has put her in a boarding school.

True; only children bring happiness in life.

Miriam! Yes!

Tell me, what you want.

We have an organisation, "South hall Black Sisters".

Kiranjeet Ahluwalia must have told you about me.

Yes. So tell me what your work is, Miss...

Miss. Dalal. You can call me Radha.

As you can see the condition of this table. I don't have so much time...

So will you tell the same to Kiran too, when she asks...

...you why you missed her last date of appeal?

She has only 2 days left for appeal.

Else, her punishment shall be confirmed.

And you say, you have no time for her?

Miss. Dalal, I shall talk clearly to you.

I have heard a lot of appreciation about you and your organization.

I will not be able to do your work.

But I will not come to your office to tell you how to do your work.

I struggled for days.

Sometimes, even whole night, so that I get some clue, somewhere.

A clue by which I can prove this accusation wrong.

I am not among the white collared lawyers who charge 500 pounds...

....and drink Champaign in the clubs.

But I do know the law.

Shall I tell honestly?

The order was right, as a matter of law.

But...- I am sorry!

I too have pity on her.

But nothing else can be done.

If this is so, we will have to find another way.

Deepak! Oh it's you.

You got very late.

What is this?

Alcohol?

You are very pretty!

You've drunk too much! - No!

Deepak, No!

Deepak, No!

No! - Kiran! Kiran! - No!

Deepak, No! No! No!

You have a bad dream!

Nothing happened!

It's alright! You are okay!

Okay! I am here!

Ronnie is here with you!

Ronnie is here!

Nothing will happen!

I killed my husband!

I spent 10 years with Deepak.

Never had a single night happiness.

He used to beat me.

He used to rape you?

So, you killed him.

You did good.

Hey!

I was born in a village, Chapala, in Punjab.

I was the youngest among 9 children.

And the dearest to all.

When I was few months old, my father expired.

When I was 16 years, my mother died of cancer.

She wanted me to become a lawyer.

Then why did you not become?

My husband did not allow.

It's a free country, Kiran.

You can become what you want.

But my family told me, get married, have kids, and...

...become an ideal Indian woman.

Rainbow! Triple score.

What's the name? - Yes.

Yes, somewhat like my family!

If they had their way, I would have been a housewife in Birmingham.

But you wouldn't be here!

Some places are worse than jail.

Big word, "shoulder".

Big word? Wrong word.

"Shoulder". - Yes, "shoulder".

But it needs, this; shoulder.

"U"? I need you?

Yes, you need me!

Don't worry, I am here!

Connell was fascinated. - fascinated. - fascinated.

It was becoming unbearable! - Unbearable! - Unbearable!

She had only one desire, now.

Next! - Ahluwalia!

Next! - Lola!

What are you doing?

I need 60 pounds for the phone bill. - 60 pounds?

Why so much?

It's you who keep talking to your brothers in India.

Give my black shirt! Come on!

How will I manage the household expenses?

Tell your brothers to send money.

For their dear sister.

Where are you going?

To meet my friends. Will come soon.

I know who you are going to meet.

You should be ashamed.

I am carrying your baby.

Move aside!

I said, Move! Kiran! Kiran!

Kiran, are you okay?

Is the child okay?

Is the child okay?

Why do you do like this, by which I lose my temper?

I get angry.

I am sorry, Kiran! Forgive me! Sorry!

The children like all this very much.

Was very thoughtful of you.

Thank you!

Wow! Kiran, you've started speaking English very well.

It's all a wonder by Ronnie.

I wanted you to meet her.

So, what's happening about Kiran's appeal?

Our lawyer has done the appeal, with great difficulty.

But, it's been a year and no date for the hearing.

Is there a nice barrister to fight the case?

That's the thing. Who will fight without money?

Lord Foster's office!

Yes, please hold!

I said no interruptions!

I am sorry sir. But your sister is online.

Are these your kids?

Very cute!

Your children? - I have two. Girls!

You miss them, isn't it?

Every moment, every day!

So much work is left.

There will be 2 more bundle, from 3 blocks.

Press yours hands, quickly!

Any idea why we have been called here?

Neither did I know 2 hours ago,

Nor did I know after coming here,

And no idea, even now.

Why are you so annoyed? I just asked.

It's a Good necklace!

Tie is good!

Lord Foster shall met you now.

Please come! - Yes, come in!

Hello! - Hello, I am Radha! - How do you do?

Gupta! - Please be seated!

Thank you!

What would you have? Tea, coffee?

No! Thank you!

I shall have a cup of tea!

Two teas, please, Glenda!

Well! Thank you, both, for coming!

I understand that the importance of this case is time.

So I want that, Mr. Gupta, you keep the legal matters going, as a solicitor.

I did not understand!

Obviously, our law library will be open for you.

And our staff to shall help you.

Thank you! - Thank you!

I am sorry, Mr. Forster!

We are a bit confused.

About what? - As to, why have we been called here?

Oh I see! I am sorry!

I thought you might be knowing.

As a counsel for the Queen, I shall lodge the appeal for Mrs. Ahluwalia.

What? But why do you...

Mr. Foster, we don't have funds to pay a barrister like you.

No! I don't even want!

I shall do this without fees. I shall considerate a favor.

On whom? - On my sister, Veronica Scoot.

She is known to your client in the Millwood hall. - Ronnie?

I heard they two are jail mates.

What? You are her brother?

Actually, I was surprised to get a call from her.

We never got along together.

She never even took my help in her legal problems too.

It's very clear that she is a good friend of Mrs. Ahluwalia.

Hi! What?

You are welcome!

Leave, its difficult breathing!

Yes! Yes, I know about it, I shall... - Yes, today evening!

Just hold a minute!

Jamila!

What is it, madam, don't you know to read English?

Do you know?

This is not any silly poster.

It's a matter of a woman's life.

Not posters allowed, means, not allowed!

Sorry officer!

We shall get it out now. - Then, fast!

Are you mad? We are not taking it off.

Why are you smiling?

You made a fool of him.

Lula, what's the matter?

Something has happened to Gladys. Come on!

So, "you thought I won't know anything". Isn't it, Gladys?

Are you being smart? I know what you've done.

Now what's the problem, Dourine? Let her go!

Look, Gladys! Your friends have come!

What say, shall I tell everyone?

When they get to know what you did, they'll spit on your face.

What nonsense is all this?

Why is she inside for 12 years, you know?

Because she killed her own children!

Fell unconscious, isn't it?

But I will not let you go now. - No!

You are in pain, why?

Get out of here, else I'll smash your head!

Let her go!

Now I think you want her share of beating.

Why so? - She's my friend!

And I hate hooliganism!

She hates hooliganism!

What is all this? No one told me. Is there a party?

Do tell me too!

Dourine, you will have to counter me too.

And, me too.

Want to try, then come on!

I'll see you'll!

And you!

Yes, I had told that one should fight for rights.

But, know the difference between humans and animals.

What happened, Gladys? - That was an accident!

Those days, he drank a lot.

And one night, as I was cooking, I slept off.

I might have kept the towel on the cooker.

It caught fire.

My girls were on upstairs.

A neighbor took me outside.

He could not go upstairs. And the fire caught up.

They screamed.

My innocent children kept screaming.

Leave me alone!

This will not do.

But what happened? You had agreed.

What to do? I am shy!

I cannot become nude in front of the world.

I understand, Kiran!

But everyone wants to know your story. From you.

My English is not good.

Then you write in Punjabi. I shall handle the rest.

What to tell, and how?

As you had told me!

The other women to shall have some confidence with these.

Just think!

The hall has been booked, the posters too have been stuck.

We all shall get public support from this rally.

Is your pride more important, or your freedom?

Think of your children!

My culture is blended in my blood...

Which is running in every part of my body.

The culture that I was born into,

In which I grew up,

There, a women is considered the respect of the house.

This false respect, name, fame, pride.

To save all these, we are taught to remain silent and bear crime and cruelty.

The entire 10 years I was insulted like this. Bore all.

And now one even knew of it.

I came out of my husband's jail, and stepped into the jail of the law.

And it is here that I, for the first time felt freedom.

So proud of you!

Saw her?

James. O. Connell? - Who are you? - Anil Gupta!

The solicitor of Kiran Ahluwalia.

Will you drink? - No, I don't drink!

What do you want? - I had seen you at the rally.

Let me talk about the matter, straight!

We are to appeal in the high court, about Kiran's punishment.

We need your help!

Do you see any chance?

Truly speaking, very less.

Pretty girl! Your wife?

Was to be. But not now!

Oh sorry! - But, she abandoned me.

I used to drink loneliness, before.

Zahra used to joke saying, "You get intoxicated by just smelling alcohol".

But, after the case she felt the change in me.

She did not know the reason.

But she knew, for sure, that something was eating me up, from within.

In the earlier hearing, it was in your testimony that,

After the fire, Kiran Ahluwalia was alert, and in her senses.

Is this true? - I had lied that day!

She was not in her senses.

She did not even know who was there.

I had to give my testimony, because I was present there.

But I gave importance to my career rather than truth.

I heard that by accepting your mistakes, you feel light.

Is this true?

I think, a one who goes astray and...

...comes home in the evening, is not called gone astray.

If Dourine sees you in this dress, she'll immediately hug you.

If she was a male, she'd have thought of it.

Miss. Scott, now come on!

How is it? I look good? - Yes!

If I don't an appeal, at least I'll get some lover.

Hope the money you gave has some benefit.

Yes, it should have.

You just let me talk. Okay? - Okay!

Here it is!

I have seen the papers that you had sent.

What you think?

You might not like, hearing it.

But her statements is totally an acceptance of crime.

What she did, she accepts. And with her too it should be like the other murders.

What is this? You know that...

There could be something else also which could help us.

Well, there could be one thing.

Check the jail psychiatrist's report, again!

He had seen her before the attack, before the hearing.

And he has written, "endogenous propulsion".

So, will we have to conclude that she is mad?

Okay, Thank you doctor for your suggestions!

What kind of a world is this where, to seek justice...

...a woman has to be mad?

And it is enough for a man to be just angry.

Doctor, I am sorry!

Thank you, again!

We should leave now!

Ronnie, look, so many letters.

What happened?

You know that I get emotional with silly things.

Your appeal?

My lawyer says it's impossible.

But I had somewhat over expectations.

Don't know what I will tell him.

Everyone calls her a murderer's girl.

She has had 3 fights, so far.

Because of me.

Tell me, what kind of a mother am I?

Here...average.

Since when have you started joking?

Since the day I met you.

Why did Kiran's lawyer not keep the defense of "provocation"?

Because this does not apply to her case.

Yes, Deepak had attacked Kiran, but,

Kiran murdered him after 2 hours.

So? - So, the law considered the 2 hours as a cooling down period.

Actually, they say that, Kiran had enough time to think with a cool mind.

So, they cannot call it, "provoked".

So this is not a manslaughter, but a murder.

But she kept bearing, physical, mental and...

...sexual crimes, silently for 10 years.

And one night she could not, anymore.

Rather than bearing it more, that volcano erupted.

Is it so difficult to understand this?

This is indeed brilliant! - What?

We can make this our issue for the appeal.

Means?

I mean, while giving the submission, the judge...

...did not tell the jury the story about the cruelty happen to Kiran...

...which could have proved her to be a distressed woman. - Yes.

This means the jury was misguided.

So what are you saying, we have a chance?

Yes, a small one, but we do have a chance.

Where is Ronnie?

I saw her near the toilet, some while ago.

Why? - She was not seen whole day.

Ronnie!

Ronnie!

Ronnie!

Ronnie!

Ronnie!

Yes, now, it's alright!

Did not see a case like this till date.

One needs courage to commit suicide with a plastic blade.

She is fortunate that you reached on time.

Will she be fine?

She will be kept in the ward, till she is fine, under strict observation.

But, she will survive.

Well done, Ahluwalia!

You have saved me from a huge investigation.

I don't know if this is okay!

Don't worry! You'll look good!

You are not the earlier Kiran now.

This will be your new Identity.

Do it and see!

Thursday, July 30,1992

Wow! Kiran, you look very good!

Surely you shall succeed!

Good luck, Kiran!

Go, show the world what you are.

Go! Go, Kiran!

Kiran!

I am coming from the bank!

Where's the money gone, Kiran?

Answer me, 'what did you do with the money?"

I spent it!

It was my money, not your father's!

I spent it!

Food, for your sons.

I'll burn your face on which you are so proud.

Talking nonsense!

It's my house, my money!

I'll spend it on other women, it's my wish.

Staring at me? Shall I burn your eyes, now?

Say, "Shall I burn?"

Whether I splurge, or whatever, who will stop me?

You?

All rise!

Counsel, are you ready to begin the investigation? - Yes, my lord!

Proceed!

My lord, today, we have brought an appeal, to you all, on...

...behalf of my client, Kiranjeet Ahluwalia, whom...

...the honorable court had given a life sentence, on 7th December, 1989.

We believe that the court has erred in giving the verdict!

So, we appeal for a new trial!

So, obviously, you shall submit the basis of your appeal.

My lord, our appeal has 3 important basis.

My first and second submission relates...

...to the interpretation of provocation given by the honorable judge, to the jury.

In the case of Regina versus Daffy,

The word provocation was accepted by this court.

And that is: Provocation is an event...

....or series of event which would cause any reasonable person...

...a sudden and temporary loss of self-control, rendering...

...the accused to so subject to passion, as to make him/her, for the...

...moment, not master of his or her own mind.

My lord, let me remind the court that,

The honorable court had in the hearing of the present case too, while...

...advising the jury, had rendered the same words, exactly.

Yes, my lord! That's true!

For the moment I wish to tell that, making Daffy's case an example...

Speaking clearly, it was a mistake.

Counsel, do think and speak!

Sorry, my lord! It was not intended to insult the court.

Well, while giving the submission to the jury, the honorable judge...

...had told the court that, when my client...

...was under cruelty the deceased and after that the crime for which she...

...was punished, in between both these incidents, there was a time of 2 hours.

That is called "cooling off" period.

And it should not be called "provocation".

On the other hand, my lord, it's written in the homicide at of 1957 that:

Where there is evidence on which the jury can find that...

...the defendant was provoked to lose his...

...self-control, the question of whether it was...

...enough to make a reasonable person do as they did, shall...

...be left to the jury.

My lord, the argument can also be said that...

...in the opinion of the honorable judge, to burn someone...

...alive, while sleeping, is not right for any normal or matured person.

Right, my lord!

For whom?

For you? For me?

For a woman, who was a victim to beating and insults for 10 years?

A woman who not only had a fright for her own life,

But also for her innocent children.

I myself would not have the courage...

...to know what is meaning of "Right" to the honorable court, for such a woman.

My second submission, my lord:

I am disappointed with the honorable judges in the manner...

...in which he described the list of characteristics of the accused.

It is my belief, my lord:

The mental state in which she was, is called "battered women syndrome".

And in continues Persecution, it affected her personality so much...

...that her state became like a learned helplessness, which is known...

...to psychiatrist by this name.

So you believe that the judges should have considered it, in the list.

My lord, at least, the whole list should have been presented to the jury...

...so that before the decision, they could have understood the case.

Finally, the relation to my 3rd submission.

Feminist responsibility. It is based on the basis of the incident happened, my lord.

We shall present the statements of Police constable James. O. Connell.

In it, it is said, the accused was neither alert, nor was she in her senses.

When he questioned her after the attack.

Also, my lord, there is also the reports...

...of the psychiatrist reports which has come recently, in which...

...this opinion is expressed, that:

That, during the attack, that night, the accuseds mental stability had reduced.

It means "diminished responsibility".

And as per the homicide at of 1957,

My lord, my client has already borne 2 big injustices.

First, from the hands of that person who ...

...had promised in marriage to give her love and respect.

And second, as per our laws, to correct the initial doings is not possible now.

But by accepting our appeal, you...

...would help us in correcting the second injustice.

We shall ponder on these arguments tonight!

The court is adjourned until tomorrow morning, 10:30.

One more, please!

Enough! You've drunk too much!

So, what's the celebration, Mr. Solicitor?

Is it for tomorrow's victory, or, for my losing principles?

Radha, why do you talk like this?

This is not your personal matter!

It is, for me! - What?

My sister...why couldn't I understand?

Whenever I saw the injury marks,

She always said that she hurt the furniture, in her sleep.

And I used to think it's true.

Don't know why she used to protect that idiot.

That devil used to beat my sister mercilessly.

For 6 years, total.

And I did not even know of it.

And one day, she committed suicide.

And, I could do nothing!

Radha, I am so sorry!

I Never knew this!

To sister's! - To sister's!

Friday, July 31,1992

This is such a painful case, which...

...has become a discussion in the entire country.

There were 3 basis of the appeal.

The first 2 were related to the suggestion...

...given by the honorable judge to the jury, which is about provocation.

As per our opinion, the suggestions given to the jury...

...were right, as per the law.

And the third basis of the appeal, "diminished responsibility".

It proves that the accused's lawyer's contention is strong.

We have a report in front of us, which...

...the court had received, before the hearing.

A doctor has opined in it, that:

At the time of the incident, the accused was in such a mental state...

...which is called "endogenous depression".

By this, it is unclear that, how could the court miss such an important document.

In such a situation, we cannot consider that decision as right.

And on that basis, we have come to this conclusion, that:

There be a hearing on this case again!

There was no necessity for a hearing again.

Well, the law could not forgive a woman who burned her husband alive.

But, on 25th September, 1992, the accusation on her,

Was changed from Murder to manslaughter,

And her punishment period was reduced.

And considering her time of 3 years and 4 months...

...spent in the prison as a justification, she was released.

Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet!

Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet!

Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet!

Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet!

Kiran, would you like to say something?

Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet! Kiranjeet!

Thank you for this confidence!

It's life; it's not for bearing crimes silently.

In such a relation, there is no desire, no peace, which is full of abjectness.

It is every mother's duty,

That, she teaches her sons to love and respect a woman's pride.

And not nonviolence and hate.

That's when this pain and insult shall end.

My story is a part of this solution.

If not mine, but this subject does have importance.

Please don't forget this:

There are many sisters like this, who need your help.

Please!

Well done! Congratulations!

No one can even imagine how it could be, to be...

...spending the precious part of your life here.

But, for Kiran, Millwood hall was never a jail.

This was the first step towards her freedom.

Rajiv, do your buttons!

Okay, go!

Bye mother!

Regina vs Ahluwalia became the monumental court case that...

...changed the nature of British law forever, as affords...

...the 'provocation defense' -the acceptance of...

...battered women's syndrome as a legal state of mind, in...

...accordance with defendants who have suffered extended...

...physical abuse at the hands of a spouse.

In 2001, Kiranjeet Ahluwalia was honored by Prime Minister...

...Tony Blair's wife Cherie Booth, with the Asian woman role...

...model award for her courage.