In a significant development, the Kerala High Court has declined to issue an order stopping the release of the upcoming web series 'Anali'. The series, directed by Midhun Manuel Thomas and starring Nikhila Vimal, draws inspiration from the infamous Koodathayi mass murder case.
Petition Dismissed: No Stay on Release
Jolly Joseph, the prime accused in the shocking Koodathayi murder case, had filed a petition seeking a ban on the series' release. She contended that the storyline of 'Anali' bore a strong resemblance to the real-life events for which she is facing trial, and that its streaming could prejudice her rights. However, Justice V G Arun, after hearing the arguments, made it clear that the series cannot be stopped at this juncture.
The judge observed that a stay order cannot be granted based merely on assumptions and guesses. He pointed out that only a few similarities were visible in the promotional teaser, which was insufficient grounds to block the release of the entire web series. The court has, however, issued formal notices to the opposite parties, including the streaming platform Disney+ Hotstar and director Midhun Manuel Thomas. The Central Government has also been directed to be made a party to the case. The next hearing is scheduled for January 15, 2024.
Series Details and Ongoing Trial
The web series 'Anali' features Nikhila Vimal in the lead role. Notably, actress Leona Lishoy portrays a character that is reported to closely resemble Jolly Joseph, a detail that has attracted considerable attention following the court proceedings. The series is set to begin streaming soon on the Disney+ Hotstar platform.
Meanwhile, the trial in the actual Koodathayi murder case continues in a Kozhikode Special Court. The case involves the alleged cyanide poisoning of six family members between 2002 and 2016. In a recent deposition, forensic surgeon Dr. K Prasannan informed the court that Roy Thomas, Jolly Joseph's first husband, died due to cyanide poisoning. Chemical tests were conducted after suspicions arose during the post-mortem examination. As per the charges, Roy Thomas was allegedly murdered in September 2011 by mixing cyanide into his food.
What This Ruling Means
The court's decision underscores the legal principle that creative works inspired by true events cannot be pre-emptively censored without concrete evidence of harm or prejudice to an ongoing trial. Until the next hearing on January 15, there are no legal restrictions preventing the release and streaming of 'Anali'. This ruling sets a precedent for how Indian courts may handle similar conflicts between creative expression and legal proceedings in the future, especially in the booming OTT content space.
The case highlights the delicate balance between the right to free speech and artistic expression, and the right of an accused to a fair trial. All eyes will now be on the content of the series when it releases and the subsequent legal proceedings on January 15.
