Controversy surrounding South Superstar Kamal Haasan's much-anticipated film, 'Thug Life,' continues to escalate. Following a dispute regarding its release in Karnataka, a petition filed in the Supreme Court seeking urgent hearing has been denied.
Thug Life in Karnataka: The ongoing controversy surrounding Kamal Haasan's 'Thug Life' in Karnataka has taken a legal turn. The film's release was blocked in some parts of the state, and when demands for its release arose, cinema owners began receiving threats. Consequently, a petition was filed in the Supreme Court seeking security.
However, the Supreme Court refused to grant an urgent hearing. The court advised the petitioner to first raise the matter before the appropriate state authorities.
What is the entire issue?
The uproar surrounding 'Thug Life' began after a purportedly controversial comment about the Kannada language surfaced during the film's promotion by actor Kamal Haasan. Following this, several organizations and groups in Karnataka protested against Kamal Haasan. They began demonstrations against the film's release and openly threatened to damage, even set fire to, cinemas if the film was screened.
Considering this controversy, the film was released in other parts of India on June 5th, but its screening was stopped in Karnataka due to security concerns.
Supreme Court's response:
The Karnataka Theatre Association filed an urgent petition in the Supreme Court, requesting police protection for Karnataka cinemas to enable them to release 'Thug Life' without fear. However, a two-judge bench of the Supreme Court, comprising Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Manmohan, refused to list the petition for urgent hearing. The court directed the petitioners to approach the Karnataka High Court first.
Justice Mishra remarked, "Go to the High Court. Demand security there first. This is not an emergency matter to be heard directly in the Supreme Court." The court also suggested that cinemas should mandatorily install safety equipment, particularly fire extinguishers, to address any potential threats.
Concerns of theatre owners:
The Karnataka Theatre Association stated that they are receiving threats from various sources, with some organizations publicly threatening on social media and other platforms to burn down cinemas if the film is screened. A lawyer representing the association explained that these threats pose a serious law and order challenge, and if the administration doesn't take strict action, theatre owners will not screen the film.
Although actor Kamal Haasan has not yet made a direct statement on this controversy, sources suggest he wants the film released across India and that no state should refuse to screen a film cleared by the censor board. 'Thug Life' has received censor board approval and is running peacefully in other states.
About the film 'Thug Life':
'Thug Life' is a gangster-thriller drama directed by veteran director Mani Ratnam. Besides Kamal Haasan, several prominent actors are featured. The film is significant because it marks a reunion between Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam after many years. Kamal Haasan not only acted but also co-wrote and co-penned the screenplay. The film's technical quality, cinematography, and music are also receiving significant praise.
