Supreme Court issues notice to Karnataka Government over alleged 'extra-judicial ban' on Kamal Haasan film Thug Life

The Supreme Court on Friday, June 13, issued a notice to the Karnataka government over a temporary restraining order petition challenging the alleged “extra-judicial ban” on the theatrical release of Thug Life, starring Kamal Haasan. The petition was filed by M. Mahesh Reddy, a resident of Bengaluru, who accused the Karnataka government of obstructing the film’s release through informal police directives and oral instructions, despite it having received certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

 

Supreme Court issues notice to Karnataka Government over alleged 'extra-judicial ban' on Kamal Haasan film Thug Life

 

A bench comprising Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Manmohan sought responses from the state’s Chief Secretary, Principal Home Secretary, and Director General of Police in the matter over the ban. It has been listed for further hearing on Tuesday, June 17. The plea contended that the state’s actions undermine Article 19(1)(a), which guarantees freedom of speech and expression, and Article 19(1)(g), which protects the right to practise any profession or to carry on any occupation or business.

 

According to the petition, the continued pressure to block the film amounts to an act of "intimidation" and poses a threat to public order and the secular structure of the state. Representing the petitioner, Advocate A. Velan argued that such interference amounts to a violation of constitutionally guaranteed fundamental rights, further alleging that the government’s actions amounted to a “calculated attack on the secular fabric and public order of the state.”

 

The controversy around Thug Life escalated after actor Kamal Haasan made a comment during a promotional event, stating that “Kannada was derived from Tamil,” a remark that angered several pro-Kannada groups. Many perceived the statement as offensive to the Kannada language and culture, leading to calls for the film’s boycott across Karnataka.

 

In response to the backlash, Kamal Haasan clarified that his remarks stemmed from admiration and were not intended to insult anyone. He refused to issue an apology, reiterating that his words were rooted in a sense of regional brotherhood, particularly due to his long-standing friendship with Kannada actor Shiv Rajkumar.

 

As the legal battle continues, the case now brings into focus broader questions surrounding censorship, free speech, and state intervention in certified film releases, with Thug Life becoming a flashpoint in the debate.

 

Also Read: Ravi K Chandran, legendary cinematographer of Thug Life, on why the film hasn’t been liked, “I guess people expected Nayakan and not an action film from Mani and Kamal sir”

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