Supreme Court Orders Protection for Kamal Haasan's 'Thug Life' Amidst Controversy

The Supreme Court on Thursday mandated the Karnataka state government to enforce both criminal and civil measures against any individual or group attempting to disrupt the release of Kamal Haasan's film 'Thug Life'. Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan resolved the case after reviewing submissions from all involved parties.

During the proceedings, the court examined input from the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) petitioner, Karnataka state officials, and the Karnataka Sahitya Parishat, who intervened due to public discord over Haasan's recent remarks. The Parishat's counsel indicated local unrest over the remarks.

The court questioned the Parishat's stance on threats of violence over the film's release. Justice Bhuyan challenged the Parishat, asking, 'Do you support threats to burn theaters? What's your position on freedom to view the movie?'

The Parishat's representative assured the court discouragement of violence. Karnataka's government also assured the court of its commitment to the film's uncontested release with adequate security, responding to court inquiries about state measures against violent threats.

The court criticized certain parties' reactions to artistic expressions. 'Should movies, comedy, or poetry be banned due to hurtful sentiments? There seems to be no limit,' questioned Justice Bhuyan, underscoring the broader concern over freedom of expression.

Karnataka and other respondents committed to upholding freedom of speech, clarifying their intentions to enable a safe film release. Post deliberation, the court concluded the case, following assurances from all parties to honor their commitments.

The controversy arose after actor Kamal Haasan's comments on the Kannada language origins, inciting state-wide agitation against his film's release. Haasan had claimed, 'Kannada was born from Tamil.'

(With inputs from agencies.)