Supreme Court seeks Karnataka's reply on plea for security to Thug Life release

The Supreme Court on Friday issued a notice to the Karnataka government, seeking its response to a petition demanding police protection for the release of the film Thug Life, starring actor-politician Kamal Haasan, in the state.

A Bench comprising Justices PK Mishra and Manmohan took note of the petitioner’s claim that although the film had received certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), it was not being permitted to screen in Karnataka due to threats of violence against theatres. The Court remarked, “Considering the urgency shown, we issue notice to the respondent.”

The petition, filed by Bengaluru resident M Mahesh Reddy, alleged that the film was facing a de facto ban due to threats from fringe organisations and the inaction of state authorities. “The State has completely capitulated. They have joined hands with extremist elements. One of the theatres was seized while women and children were still inside! No FIR was registered. The theatre management were running for cover,” argued Advocate A Velan, representing the petitioner.

The row comes in the wake of recent remarks by Kamal Haasan, who stated that “Kannada was born out of Tamil”, triggering sharp backlash and calls for a boycott of his film in Karnataka.