New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Karnataka government to take strict action under criminal and civil law against any individual or group attempting to obstruct the release of the film Thug Life. The directive comes in response to petitions filed over the film’s unofficial ban in the state, following a controversy involving actor Kamal Haasan’s remarks on the Tamil-Kannada linguistic connection.
The apex court, after hearing submissions from all parties involved, disposed of the matter, stating that it was satisfied with the responses and assurances given. The Court made it clear that no one will be allowed to take the law into their own hands to prevent the release of a certified film.
The Karnataka government, in its submission, clarified that it had not imposed any formal ban on the film but raised concerns over the sentiments hurt by Haasan’s statement. Despite that, the Court reminded the state of its responsibility to ensure law and order, and protect the legal right of filmmakers to exhibit their films without unlawful interference.
