The Karnataka government has assured the Supreme Court that it will provide protection for the screening of actor Kamal Haasan’s upcoming film Thug Life, effectively clearing the way for its release in the state. The assurance was formally submitted to the apex court on Wednesday, following which a bench comprising Justice Ujjal Bhuyan and Justice Manmohan disposed of the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought intervention against an unofficial ban on the film in Karnataka.
The PIL was filed by Bengaluru-based petitioner M. Mahesh Reddy, seeking a direction to ensure the smooth release of the CBFC-cleared film. During the hearing, the bench observed that frequent protests citing hurt sentiments were stifling artistic freedom. “Should a film or stand-up comedy be stopped just because someone disagrees with it?” the court remarked. Earlier, on June 17, the court had advised the Karnataka government to ensure that the film’s release would not be obstructed by protestors. The controversy surrounding Thug Life emerged after Kamal Haasan’s alleged remarks about the Kannada language triggered backlash, leading to calls for a ban in the state. With the government’s formal commitment to safeguard the screening, the court concluded the case.
