SC Criticises Karnataka HC Over Kamal Haasan’s Thug Life Ban, Slams Mobs: ‘You Can’t Burn Down Theatres’

The Supreme Court has spoken out strongly after Kamal Haasan’s upcoming film Thug Life faced a ban threat in Karnataka. The movie ran into controversy following alleged comments by the actor, prompting some groups to call for a release ban. On Tuesday, the top court made it clear, films can’t be held hostage by mob pressure.

Supreme Court Warns Against Violence

While hearing the case, the Supreme Court delivered a clear warning. The bench said, “If someone has made a statement, you counter it with another statement. You cannot threaten to burn down theatres.” It stressed that disagreements are allowed, but threats and violence have no place in a democracy.

The court also criticised the Karnataka High Court’s approach. It questioned why the High Court expected Kamal Haasan to apologise in order to resolve the issue. The bench noted, “There is something wrong with the system when one person makes a statement and everyone gets involved. Why should the High Court say ‘express an apology’? That is not its role.”

The case has now been transferred from the Karnataka High Court to the Supreme Court. The bench asked the state government to submit its reply. It also reminded all parties that once a film is cleared by the CBFC, it has a legal right to release. Viewers can choose to watch or skip it, but no one has the right to block it using threats.

The Supreme Court strongly defended the right to free speech and peaceful disagreement. Referring to earlier rulings, the bench said, “We are the custodians of the rule of law. That is what the Supreme Court is for.” It added that no group can decide what films can or can’t be shown.

The court asked, “If enlightened people of Karnataka and Bengaluru believe his statement was wrong, they can issue a statement saying so. Why threaten to burn down cinemas?”

About Thug Life Ban Controversy

The Tamil film Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam and starring Kamal Haasan, was banned in Karnataka. This all started after Haasan made a controversial comment about the Kannada language.

At a promotional event, he said Kannada was "born out of Tamil," which upset many pro-Kannada groups. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) stopped the film’s release and asked Haasan to apologise.

Haasan later explained that he meant to promote unity, not insult Kannada. But the protests grew stronger, and some people even threatened to stop the film’s screenings. Eventually, it wasn't released in the state.

Despite the ban, some fans in Karnataka travelled to Tamil Nadu cities like Hosur to watch the film in theatres.