The Supreme Court on Monday refused to fast-track a petition filed by the Karnataka Theatres Association, seeking protection against threats related to the screening of Thug Life, a film starring Kamal Haasan.
The petition, submitted under Article 32, claimed that certain fringe groups were threatening cinema halls willing to show the film in Karnataka. The petitioners said they initially approached the Karnataka High Court but were advised to settle the matter with those issuing the threats — prompting them to move the apex court.
However, Justice PK Mishra, while hearing the brief mention, questioned the choice of legal route. “Why file an Article 32 petition here? Go to the High Court,” he said, declining urgent listing and advising petitioners to seek relief at the state level.
The controversy follows Haasan’s remarks about the Kannada language, which drew backlash from pro-Kannada outfits. In response, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce banned the film statewide, forcing the actor to announce that Thug Life would not release in Karnataka for now.
The film’s production house argued the issue involved law and order, requiring immediate Supreme Court attention. However, the court remained firm that the matter should be dealt with by the High Court first.
The producers now plan to re-approach the High Court to seek protection for theatres against threats and push for lifting the ban.
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