The Kerala High Court on Thursday stayed the release of The Kerala Story 2, which was scheduled to hit theatres on February 27.
Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, while hearing a petition challenging the film’s censor certificate, directed that the movie cannot be released on its planned date. The court also questioned the role of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), observing that it did not “abide by the rules.”
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The matter came before the court earlier this week after a petition alleged that the film’s trailer portrayed Kerala in an extremely negative light and could have broader social consequences.
The plea was filed by Sreedev Namboodiri, a biologist, who raised objections to the certification granted to the film.
During the hearing, the court noted that the concerns flagged by the petitioner were “probably genuine.”
Acting on the plea, the High Court issued notices to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the CBFC, and the film’s producer.
Filmmakers Plan Urgent Appeal
Meanwhile, sources indicate that the filmmakers are preparing to move a higher bench of the Kerala High Court against the single-judge order.
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The producers are reportedly seeking an early release of the detailed order to enable them to file an appeal without delay. With the February 27 release date approaching, the team is said to be racing against time to secure urgent relief and avoid disruption to theatrical plans.
The film is directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah.
Controversy Around Film’s Content
The Kerala Story 2 claims that young Hindu women are lured into interfaith marriages, subsequently assaulted, deprived of rights, and forced to convert to Islam. The subject drew controversy following the release of the trailer.
The court’s interim stay has now added a fresh legal dimension to the debate, with further proceedings expected in the coming days.
