Supreme Court Takes Strong Stance Against Threats to Release of 'Thoongaa Vanam' in Karnataka. The court directed the government to provide security and take action against those obstructing the release.
Kamal Haasan: The Supreme Court reprimanded those attempting to prevent the screening of actor and politician Kamal Haasan's film 'Thoongaa Vanam' in Karnataka. The court unequivocally stated that no individual or group has the authority to prevent the release of a film certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The court instructed the Karnataka government to take strict action against such troublemakers and submit their plan to the court.
State Government's Response and Assurance of Security
The Karnataka government informed the court that it is fully prepared to maintain law and order and will provide security for the film's screening. The government also clarified that if 'Thoongaa Vanam' is now released, adequate security forces will be deployed in all theaters across the state.
Reason for the Controversy
During an event, Kamal Haasan stated that the Kannada language originated from Tamil. This remark sparked outrage among Kannada support groups. They threatened to block the film's release and demanded an apology from Kamal Haasan. The actor refused to apologize, stating his comments were misinterpreted.
Police Action and Notices to Protesters
Following the controversy, the police issued notices to groups that had threatened to protest the film's release. The court expressed concern over the issue, stating that disagreement with someone's opinion does not justify preventing their film or event from proceeding.
Supreme Court's Firm Stance
During the hearing, the Supreme Court questioned the Karnataka government about whether the state is governed by the rule of law or by mob rule. The court stated that films are a part of freedom of expression in India and preventing the release of a film already cleared by the censor board is a violation of the constitution. The court requested a detailed action plan from the state government on how it will handle such cases.
Why the Petitioner Filed the Appeal
The original petitioner, Mahesh Reddy, filed a petition in the Supreme Court. He stated that the Karnataka High Court had refused to ensure the film's release was not disrupted. Following this, the Supreme Court took cognizance of the matter and issued a notice to the state government.
No Relief from the High Court
Previously, Kamal Haasan approached the Karnataka High Court, but received no relief. The court suggested the actor apologize, noting his prominent position as an upcoming Rajya Sabha member. The actor refused to apologize and postponed the film's release.
Film Bodies' Stance and U-Turn
During the controversy, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) and several Kannada theater organizations threatened to prevent the film's release until Haasan apologized. However, when the case reached the Supreme Court, the KFCC stated they had made the threat under pressure and had no objection to the film's release.
Kamal Haasan's Reaction
Following the Supreme Court proceedings, Kamal Haasan stated he is satisfied with the state government's actions and wishes to end the controversy. He reiterated that his comments were twisted and that he respects the Kannada language.
