Supreme Court defends ‘Thug Life’ screening rights

The Supreme Court has firmly upheld the rights of filmmakers and theatre owners to screen movies without facing threats of arson or violence. In a strong message to the Karnataka government, the court directed it to ensure the safe release of Kamal Haasan’s Tamil film Thug Life in the state.

A Vacation Bench comprising Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan emphasized that mob rule cannot dictate the functioning of a democratic society. “We cannot have mobs and vigilante groups take over our streets. Rule of law must prevail,” said Justice Bhuyan. Justice Manmohan added, “The State must ensure the release of CBFC-certified films. Burning cinemas or threatening filmmakers violates freedom of expression.”

The court was hearing a petition by Bengaluru resident M. Mahesh Reddy, represented by advocate Athenam Velan, seeking protection for the film’s exhibition following violent threats. The petitioner accused the Karnataka government of failing to act against those inciting unrest and intimidating theatres.

The Bench warned against “coercive censorship,” stating that people may choose not to watch a film, but violence must not be tolerated. It cited the 1990s Marathi play Me Nathuram Godse Boltoy, where the Bombay High Court overturned a government ban, protecting dissenting views. The petition also criticized the Karnataka High Court for allegedly prioritizing appeasement over enforcing constitutional rights. It argued that fringe elements were effectively controlling public discourse through intimidation, and only the Supreme Court could restore rule of law.