Kerala High Court Intervenes, Halts Release of 'The Kerala Story 2' Amid Legal Scrutiny
In a significant legal development, the Kerala High Court has issued a stay order on the release of the highly anticipated film 'The Kerala Story 2' for a period of 15 days. Justice Thomas, presiding over the case, delivered the ruling on Thursday, citing a prima facie finding of a manifest non-application of mind by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in its approval process.
Court Cites CBFC's Failure to Adhere to Legal Standards
The court's decision stems from concerns that the CBFC did not adequately apply the requisite legal standards during the certification of the film. Justice Thomas emphasized that there was a clear oversight in the board's review, potentially violating statutory requirements. This ruling has immediate implications, as tickets booked for the film are now being refunded to audiences, with lawyers confirming that the release has been officially postponed.
Impact on Audiences and Film Industry
The stay order has sparked widespread reactions, particularly among fans who had eagerly awaited the sequel. Key points include:
- Refunds are being processed for all pre-booked tickets, with theaters and online platforms complying with the court's directive.
- The film's production team faces uncertainty as they await further legal proceedings and potential revisions to secure certification.
- This incident highlights ongoing debates about censorship and regulatory oversight in India's film industry, raising questions about the CBFC's role and accountability.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders are closely monitoring the case, which could set precedents for future film releases and certification processes in the country.
