Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has appealed to Kannada language supporters to maintain calm and respect the Supreme Court ruling regarding the screening of Kamal Haasan’s film Thug Life. His request came after intense protests erupted across Karnataka, sparked by Haasan’s controversial statements about the Kannada language.

Several pro-Kannada groups accused the veteran actor of belittling the language’s rich legacy and demanded that theatres across the state boycott the movie. Demonstrators had also filed police complaints and warned cinema owners against screening the film.

However, the Supreme Court rebuked the state administration, saying that lawlessness and mob control cannot replace constitutional authority. The court’s intervention followed reports that the movie wasn’t being shown in parts of Karnataka, despite its nationwide release on June 5.

Shivakumar responded by stating that the government would wholeheartedly comply with the court’s directive. He emphasized the importance of civic restraint, urging all organisations to act within limits and not resort to vigilante actions.

“Karnataka has always embraced peace and inclusivity,” he said. Highlighting Bengaluru’s diverse cultural fabric, he noted that the city has always welcomed people from all walks of life, regardless of ethnic or linguistic identity.

He reiterated that Kannada’s dignity remains untarnished, but cautioned that all citizens must uphold the law and court decisions.