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Supreme Court Seeks Karnataka Government’s Reply on 'Thug Life' Ban

Makers argue that Karnataka’s failure to register FIRs against violent threats has allowed a de facto blockade of the CBFC-certified film

Kamal Haasan faced backlash for his comment on the Kannada language at a promotional event for Thug Life. (Photo by SUJIT JAISWAL / AFP)
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Overview

  • The Supreme Court issued notice to the Karnataka government on June 13, directing a response by June 17 to a petition challenging an extra-judicial ban on 'Thug Life'.
  • The petition highlights that despite CBFC certification, fringe groups threatened arson against cinemas and the Karnataka Film Chamber pressured theatres into boycotting the release.
  • Makers of 'Thug Life' allege the state failed to register any FIRs against those issuing threats, violating their constitutional rights under Articles 19(1)(a) and 19(1)(g).
  • The Karnataka High Court previously urged Kamal Haasan to apologize to defuse tensions, but he declined and its hearing on the film’s release has been adjourned to June 20.
  • The Supreme Court’s involvement underscores the broader clash between regional identity politics, state censorship and freedom of expression in India’s film industry.