Kerala High Court Intervenes in 'The Kerala Story 2' Certification Dispute
The Kerala High Court has issued a significant directive to the makers of the controversial film 'The Kerala Story 2', ordering them to refrain from releasing the movie's rights until the court delivers its verdict on petitions contesting the film's certification. This development comes amid ongoing legal scrutiny and public debate surrounding the sequel's content and classification.
Court Questions CBFC's Certification Decision
During the proceedings, the bench expressed concerns that appeared "probably genuine" regarding the petitions. The court explicitly instructed the producers to halt the scheduled release of the film's rights, stating, "Do not release the rights for the movie tomorrow. Wait for the hearing to conclude and for the court to decide on the petitions." This directive was reported by India Today and underscores the judicial caution being exercised.
Furthermore, the bench raised pointed questions for the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) about the classification granted to the film. Expressing surprise, the court remarked, "You have not even given an 'A' certificate to the film. You've given U/A," highlighting potential discrepancies in the certification process. The bench also noted that the filmmakers did not seem eager for an immediate screening and emphasized that there was insufficient time to thoroughly scrutinize the matter.
Legal Arguments from Both Sides
Representing the CBFC, counsel argued that using names of Indian states and cities in film titles is not unprecedented. To bolster this argument, examples such as Go Goa Gone, Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, and Delhi Belly were cited to counter objections specifically targeting the film's title.
On behalf of the producers, counsel maintained that the film focuses on the experiences of women survivors and asserted that the petition ventures beyond the film's actual content. The counsel submitted, "The main question is not about the movie, but whether this is a petition filed by an aggrieved party, a public interest petition, or something else." They further contended that the remedy being sought—a writ to nullify the certification—lacks legal basis, arguing, "Kerala is also a part of India. We cannot isolate Kerala from India. What is being sought is something unknown to the law."
Addressing claims about the state's reputation, the court was told, "There is no question of 'dignity of Kerala'; it is the dignity of India." This statement reflects the broader national context in which the legal arguments are framed.
Assurance from Filmmakers and Adjournment
After hearing preliminary arguments from both sides, the bench recorded the assurance given by the filmmakers' counsel that they would hold off on releasing the film until the court delivers its verdict. With submissions still incomplete, the matter was adjourned and is scheduled to resume tomorrow, indicating that further legal deliberations are imminent.
Background of the Controversial Sequel
'The Kerala Story 2', directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, has sparked renewed controversy reminiscent of the backlash faced by its predecessor. The film alleges that young Hindu women are enticed into interfaith marriages, subjected to abuse, deprived of their rights, and compelled to convert to Islam. This contentious narrative has fueled legal challenges and public discourse, making the court's intervention a critical juncture in the film's release timeline.
The ongoing case highlights the complex interplay between creative expression, certification norms, and legal oversight in India's film industry. As the hearing continues, stakeholders await the court's final decision, which could have significant implications for the film's distribution and broader industry practices.
