Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Thursday issued notice to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the producers of The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond on a petition seeking cancellation of the film’s certification and a stay on its release.
The plea was filed by Kannur resident Sreedev Namboodiri, who has alleged that the upcoming sequel portrays Kerala in an unfair light and has the potential to incite communal and regional disharmony. The matter came up before Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, who directed the CBFC and the film’s producer, Sunshine Pictures, to submit their responses. The case has been posted for further hearing on February 24.
Challenge to certification under Cinematograph Act
In his petition, Namboodiri has challenged the certification granted to the sequel, contending that the CBFC failed to properly assess the film’s potential impact on public order, decency and morality, as required under Section 5B of the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
The petitioner argues that the board did not adequately consider whether the film complies with the constitutional limitations on free speech under Article 19(2), which permit reasonable restrictions in the interests of public order, morality and the sovereignty and integrity of India.
The plea also claims that the certification overlooks the broader constitutional protections under Articles 14 and 21, alleging that the film’s narrative may undermine the dignity and reputation of the people of Kerala.
Objections to teaser and promotional material
A significant part of the petition focuses on the teaser and trailer of the film. The petitioner has objected to the closing line in the teaser — “ab sahenge nahin… ladenge” (we will not tolerate it anymore, but will fight) — arguing that it amounts to a call for action that could trigger violence.
The plea alleges that certain dialogues and themes in the promotional material may provoke communal tensions and deepen social divisions. According to the petitioner, while the teaser shows women from multiple States, the film continues to be branded as The Kerala Story, which he claims unfairly associates terrorism and forced conversion specifically with Kerala.
He has contended that such portrayal could amount to regional vilification and damage the image of the State.
Sequel to controversial original
The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond is a sequel to The Kerala Story, which generated significant controversy upon its release. The original film depicted a group of women from Kerala who were allegedly recruited into the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).
The first instalment had faced legal challenges in various courts over its content and claims, with petitioners questioning its factual accuracy and alleging that it painted a misleading picture of the State. Despite the opposition, the film went on to secure certification and was released theatrically.
The sequel’s promotional campaign has once again drawn scrutiny, leading to the present petition before the High Court.
Reliefs sought by petitioner
The petitioner has sought quashing of the film’s certification and suspension of its release pending consideration of his revision petition before the authorities. Alternatively, he has requested directions for modifications to the film.
These suggested changes include reconsideration of the title and insertion of adequate disclaimers to avoid what he describes as regional targeting and misrepresentation.
The High Court’s issuance of notice does not amount to a stay on the film’s release at this stage. The court will consider the responses of the CBFC and the producers before deciding on any interim relief.
Awaiting next hearing
With the matter scheduled for further hearing on February 24, all eyes will be on whether the court grants any interim directions or allows the film’s release to proceed as planned.
The case once again places the spotlight on the balance between creative freedom and constitutional safeguards, particularly in films dealing with sensitive socio-political themes.
The outcome could have implications not only for the sequel but also for how certification authorities assess controversial content in the future.