Kerala HC Probes CBFC’s Decision on The Kerala Story 2
The Kerala High Court has raised significant concerns regarding the certification of the film The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond, granted by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). During a recent hearing, the court indicated it would view the film before making a decision on three petitions that seek to halt its release and revoke its certification. The court’s scrutiny comes amid claims that the film portrays Kerala in a manner that could incite communal tensions.
Concerns Over Secular Representation
Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, presiding over the case, emphasized the CBFC’s vital role in ensuring that films accurately represent the secular nature of Kerala. He questioned whether the board had adequately considered the implications of depicting the state through what some petitioners describe as a communal lens. “Kerala is so secular. It lives with total harmony, but have you considered this when something is portrayed as happening all over the state?” Justice Thomas remarked, highlighting the potential for misrepresentation to incite public unrest. The judge’s comments reflect a broader concern about the impact of media portrayals on societal harmony.
Implications of the Film’s Title
The court noted that the film’s claim of being inspired by true events raises valid concerns among the petitioners. Justice Thomas pointed out that the inclusion of “Kerala” in the film’s title amplifies public apprehension. He stated, “Apprehensions of people in Kerala cannot be ignored because you have given the name Kerala… you say it is inspired by true events and named it Kerala, which can create some communal tension.” This observation underscores the sensitivity surrounding representations of the state in popular media, particularly in a diverse and multicultural society.
Producers’ Response and Next Steps
In response to the court’s concerns, Senior Advocate S. Sreekumar, representing the film’s producers, agreed to remove existing promotional teasers until the court reaches a verdict. He also offered to arrange a special screening of the film for the judge. This cooperative approach indicates the producers’ willingness to address the court’s concerns while awaiting further proceedings. The court is expected to view the film before making any further decisions regarding the petitions.
Background of the Controversy
The sequel to the controversial film *The Kerala Story*, which depicted women from Kerala allegedly recruited into ISIS, has sparked significant debate. Petitioners argue that the sequel’s promotional material, particularly the tagline “ab sahenge nahin… ladenge,” could provoke confrontation and disrupt public order. Multiple petitions challenge the CBFC’s certification under Section 5B of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, citing issues of misrepresentation, regional vilification, and the potential for communal disharmony. The court will continue to hear the matter after the scheduled screening of the film.
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