By The Sampadak Express
The Supreme Court has directed the Karnataka government to ensure that Kamal Haasan’s film Thug Life is released without obstruction, stating that once a movie is certified by the CBFC, it must be allowed to screen. The directive came in response to a plea by a Bengaluru resident seeking the film’s release in the state.
The state government clarified it had imposed no ban and would provide security for screenings. However, controversy continues over Haasan’s past remarks suggesting Kannada originated from Tamil, which triggered protests from pro-Kannada groups.
While the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) demanded an apology from Haasan, activist Praveen Shetty said his group accepts the Supreme Court’s decision but maintained Haasan should have apologised.
Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar urged peace and adherence to the court’s order. Meanwhile, the film’s Karnataka distributor announced he would not release Thug Life, citing poor business prospects.
Police have served notices to activists, restricting protests to Bengaluru’s Freedom Park.