Jana Nayagan Makers Take Censor Fight to Supreme Court
KVN Productions, the production house behind actor Vijay's film Jana Nayagan, has escalated its legal battle to the Supreme Court. The move comes after the Madras High Court issued an interim order that stayed a single judge's direction to grant CBFC certification for the movie.
Legal Timeline and Current Status
On January 9, the Madras High Court stayed the earlier order that directed the Central Board of Film Certification to immediately issue a censor certificate for Jana Nayagan. This decision has left the fate of Vijay's final film uncertain. The next hearing at the High Court is scheduled for January 21.
However, the film's producers are not waiting. They have requested an early hearing of the case at the Supreme Court, which could take place as soon as Tuesday. In response, the CBFC filed a caveat in the Supreme Court on the same day. This legal move ensures that no order will be passed without first hearing the board's arguments.
CBI Questions Vijay on Karur Stampede Tragedy
Meanwhile, actor-turned-politician Vijay faced questioning from the Central Bureau of Investigation on Monday. The CBI is investigating the Karur stampede that occurred in September 2025, which tragically claimed 41 lives.
Focus of the Investigation
The probe is examining several critical aspects of the event. Investigators are looking into alleged delays at the venue, crowd management failures, and organizational responsibilities. One key issue under scrutiny is whether a reported seven-hour delay contributed to the swelling crowd and subsequent loss of control.
The investigation also covers the movement of Vijay's modified caravan through the gathering. Authorities want to determine when Vijay became aware of the stampede and the sequence of events that followed the tragedy.
Madras High Court Protects Kamal Haasan's Personality Rights
In another development, the Madras High Court granted interim relief to veteran actor Kamal Haasan on Monday. The court acted on a plea filed by the actor against the misuse of his personality rights.
Court's Interim Order
Kamal Haasan filed what is known as a John Doe suit, arguing that he needed to protect both his dignity and commercial interests. The court has now restrained the creation and depiction of the actor's name or image in any form of media until the next hearing.
The order specifically states that without Kamal Haasan's consent, selling merchandise bearing his image or name is not permitted until the next date of hearing. This provides temporary protection for the actor's rights while the case proceeds.
Karthi's Vaa Vaathiyaar Faces New Legal Challenge
Karthi's upcoming film Vaa Vaathiyaar has encountered another legal hurdle. Despite this, the film remains on track for its Pongal release.
Nature of the Dispute
Karur-based Dhanesh Associates approached the Madras High Court seeking to stall the film's release in both Tamil and Telugu versions. The company claims that the film's producers owe them unpaid dues.
Since the amount in question is reportedly a few lakh rupees, sources indicate that both parties are likely to resolve the issue soon. This suggests that the legal challenge may not ultimately delay the film's scheduled release.