In a dramatic legal turn, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has urgently sought to appeal a Madras High Court order that granted a U/A certificate to actor Vijay's highly anticipated film, 'Jana Nayagan'. This move came mere minutes after a single judge pronounced the verdict, setting the stage for a continued legal battle over the film's release.
Courtroom Drama Unfolds Minutes After Verdict
Justice PT Asha of the Madras High Court pronounced the order allowing the producers' plea at 10:30 am on Friday, January 9. The court directed the CBFC to issue the U/A certificate, noting that complaints about the film's content hurting religious sentiments appeared to be an "afterthought." Justice Asha warned that entertaining such complaints could set a "dangerous trend."
However, the legal reprieve for the producers was short-lived. According to reports from Live Law, Additional Solicitor General ARL Sundaresan, representing the CBFC, made an urgent mention before a bench led by Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava. He sought the immediate listing of the board's appeal against the single judge's order. When the Chief Justice enquired if the appeal was already filed, the ASG stated the order had just been passed. The CJ reportedly responded, "You file, we'll consider," asking the ASG to file the appeal and mention the matter again.
Release Postponed Amid Censorship Row
The legal tussle has directly impacted the film's release schedule. 'Jana Nayagan' was originally slated for release on January 9 but was postponed due to the ongoing censorship dispute. On Wednesday evening, the film's makers announced the delay with a heavy heart, citing "unavoid circumstances beyond our control." They expressed understanding for the audience's anticipation and promised to announce a new release date at the earliest.
Directed by H. Vinoth, 'Jana Nayagan' is notably actor Vijay's farewell film before he fully transitions into politics. The movie features a star-studded cast including Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, Mamitha Baiju, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Priyamani, and Narain in pivotal roles.
What Happens Next?
While the film has now been granted a U/A certificate by the court's order, the CBFC's swift move to appeal indicates that the legal battle is far from over. The board's challenge will now be processed by the Madras High Court, potentially further delaying the film's journey to the theatres. The case highlights the ongoing tensions between film certification bodies, creative expression, and public sentiment in Indian cinema.
Disclaimer: This report is based on legal proceedings as reported by third-party sources. The details represent allegations from the involved parties in an ongoing case where a final verdict is pending.
