The Lucknow Bench of Allahabad High Court today directed filmmaker Karan Johar to appear before it on July 20 along with his “original” film ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham’ on a plea objecting to playing of national anthem during a scene.

The order was passed by Justice D V Sharma on a petition filed by Johar in 2002 seeking quashing of a complaint under Section 3 of the Prevention of insult to national honour Act of 1971.

“Karan Johar shall appear in person before this court along with original film on July 20,” the order said.

In 2002, Pratap Chandra filed a complaint against the Bollywood director alleging that the scene involving playing of national anthem had violated provisions under Section 3 of the Act.

The then Chief Judicial Magistrate in his order issued on April 17, 2002 had summoned the director on May 17 that year. Johar had challenged the CJM’s order in the High Court.