Supreme Court Backs Kamal Haasan Over Thug Life Controversy

Kamal Haasan, the lead actor and producer of Thug Life, approached the Supreme Court after the Karnataka High Court suggested he apologize for his remarks on the Kannada language, and the film’s release faced threats and protests in Karnataka. The controversy began when Haasan reportedly said that "Kannada was born from Tamil," leading to backlash and demands to ban the film. The Supreme Court firmly stated that no apology is required, criticized the High Court’s suggestion, and made it clear that it had no authority to ban a film cleared by the CBFC. It also emphasized that the rule of law must prevail, and that mobs cannot decide what films are screened. The court ordered the Karnataka government to ensure the safe release of the film and take action to maintain law and order.

The case was transferred from the Karnataka High Court to the Supreme Court, which also highlighted the need to protect freedom of speech and expression, stating that opinions should be countered with dialogue, not threats. Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam, was released in theatres on June 5. The film stars Kamal Haasan, Trisha, Jayam Ravi, Dulquer Salmaan, and Joju George, with music by AR Rahman. It is jointly produced by Raaj Kamal Films International and Madras Talkies.