Supreme Court on Kamal Haasan’s Film ‘Thug Life’ Not Releasing in Karnataka
Kamal Haasan’s upcoming film Thug Life could not be released in Karnataka because of a controversy over a statement he made. He had reportedly said that the Kannada language originated from Tamil, which upset many people in Karnataka. This issue created a lot of debate online and later reached the Karnataka High Court and then the Supreme Court.
On Tuesday, June 17, the Supreme Court criticised the Karnataka government for not allowing the film to release. The court said that mobs and vigilante groups cannot be allowed to block roads or stop a film’s release. It also said that a film approved by the CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) should be released in every state according to the law.
Then on Thursday, June 19, the Supreme Court gave strict instructions to the Karnataka government. The court said the government must take strong action against anyone trying to stop the screening of the film. The judges – Justice Ujjwal Bhuyan and Justice Manmohan – recorded the state government’s assurance that it will provide proper security to theatres if Thug Life is screened in Karnataka. Also read: BBC Faces Backlash Over Sidhu Moose Wala Documentary.
The court clearly said that people should not be allowed to stop a film, a stand-up comedy show, or even a poem just because their feelings are hurt. Justice Bhuyan asked, “Should a film or stand-up comedy be stopped just because someone doesn’t like it? Where are we heading if everything hurts someone’s sentiments?”
The court also said that if any person or group uses threats, violence, or force to stop the film, then the state must take immediate action under criminal and civil law, including recovery of damages.
After getting assurance from the state government, the Supreme Court closed the petition. The judges said that there was no need to issue more guidelines, but the Karnataka government must control any divisive elements that try to create trouble.
Also read: Shah Rukh Khan Makes Unexpected Entry During Sitaare Zameen Par Shoot.