SC closes plea on 'Thug Life' ban; says films with CBFC OK cannot be stopped by mobs

The Supreme Court on Thursday closed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the unofficial ban on the Tamil film 'Thug Life' in Karnataka, after the state government assured the court that no official ban had been imposed and that full protection would be provided for the film’s release if the producers chose to screen it.

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A bench comprising justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan recorded the Karnataka government's affidavit stating that it would ensure law and order during the film's screening and found no need to pass further directions or impose costs.

However, the court strongly criticised the increasing trend of artistic expression being suppressed by protest groups.

"Just because someone is offended, should a movie, a stand-up act, or a poem be stopped?" the bench asked during the hearing, expressing concern over rising instances of mob threats stalling lawful artistic work.

The PIL was filed by Mahesh Reddy, who sought directions for the release of 'Thug Life' in Karnataka. The film, featuring and co-produced by Kamal Haasan, was withheld from release in the state after backlash over his alleged comment that Kannada originated from Tamil. Protest threats were reportedly issued by various groups, prompting the producers to delay the release.

The court reminded the state that a film certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) cannot be prevented from release due to mob pressure. It added that such disruptions undermine the rule of law.