Mansoor Ali Khan Questions Censor Board's Selective Approach in 'Jana Nayagan' Controversy
The entertainment industry has been closely watching the legal battle surrounding Vijay's highly anticipated film 'Jana Nayagan'. Many had hoped the Madras High Court would rule favorably regarding the censorship issues plaguing the project. However, when the verdict ultimately supported the Censor Board's position, it triggered a wave of frustration among stars and fans across social media platforms.
Disappointment Over Rs 500-Crore Film's Certification Delay
At a recent press conference for 'Karuppu Pulsar', actor Mansoor Ali Khan expressed strong disappointment about the certification delay for 'Jana Nayagan'. The film, reportedly made with a massive budget of approximately 500 crore rupees, represents significant economic investment in the industry.
Khan emphasized the broader impact of this delay, noting that the film supports a substantial business network and provides livelihoods for thousands of families. He questioned why a mass hero like Vijay appears to be specifically targeted when other controversial films have received certification without similar obstacles.
Timing Issues and Comparative Certification Practices
'Jana Nayagan' was originally scheduled for a Pongal release on January 9th, having been submitted for censorship clearance in December. According to Khan, the film faced certification denial following a late complaint, leading to protracted court proceedings.
In a lighter moment, Khan humorously wondered if the film might eventually release for Bakri Eid instead of its intended Pongal debut. He made pointed comparisons to films like 'The Kashmir Files' and 'The Kerala Story', which faced significant protests but ultimately received certification smoothly.
Call for Structural Reforms in Certification System
Mansoor Ali Khan's critique extends beyond this specific case to the broader certification framework. He has called for substantial structural reforms within the Censor Board system, advocating for genuine independence from central government influence.
His proposed solution includes:
- A board comprising filmmakers, actors, and producers
- Inclusion of journalists and individuals with balanced understanding of cinema
- Members who comprehend both artistic expression and public sentiment
Khan warned that continued political control over certification processes threatens the very relevance and credibility of the Censor Board as an institution.
Broader Implications for Film Industry
The 'Jana Nayagan' controversy has evolved beyond a single film's release timeline to highlight systemic issues within India's film certification process. The extended delay has raised fundamental questions about:
- Transparency in certification decisions
- Consistency in applying certification standards
- The economic impact of certification delays on large-scale productions
- The relationship between artistic expression and regulatory frameworks
Khan's remarks have reignited public and industry debate about censorship practices, turning what began as a specific film's certification issue into a broader discussion about creative freedom, regulatory fairness, and institutional reform in Indian cinema.
