The Supreme Court of India has strongly criticised the Karnataka government for failing to prevent mob threats that led to an unofficial ban on Kamal Haasan’s latest film Thug Life.
The film faced backlash after Kamal Haasan’s remarks about the Kannada language, with pro-Kannada groups threatening violence and the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) halting its release. The Court ruled that a CBFC-certified film cannot be blocked due to public pressure or political outrage.
Transferring the case to itself, the Supreme Court also condemned the Karnataka High Court for suggesting that Haasan apologise, calling it an overreach. It directed the state to provide police protection to theatres willing to screen the film and to submit a compliance report by June 18, 2025. The ruling is seen as a strong stand for creative freedom and against mob-driven censorship.
However, the release date in Karnataka is yet to be announced. Directed by Mani Ratnam, the film failed to meet audience expectations and bombed at the box office shortly after its release. Meanwhile, reports suggest that its OTT release is not far off.