Release day drama: Will ‘The Kerala Story 2’ hit theatres or stay banned? High Court verdict today

Kochi: The release of ‘The Kerala Story 2’, which was scheduled to hit theatres today, remains uncertain as the Kerala High Court is set to deliver its verdict on an appeal challenging the earlier order that stayed the film’s release.

A Division Bench comprising Justice Sushant Arvind Dharmadhikari and Justice P. V. Balakrishnan heard the matter in a special sitting and is expected to pronounce its decision shortly. The ruling will determine whether the film can be screened or continue to remain on hold.

What led to the ban?

The controversy began after a single bench of the Kerala High Court directed that the film should not be released until the Central government takes a decision within 15 days on a revision petition filed against the censor board’s approval.

The order effectively stalled the film’s release, even as the producers had completed promotions and distribution arrangements.

Questions raised by the Division Bench

While hearing the appeal, the Division Bench raised key procedural questions. The court asked how a petition in the nature of public interest could be heard by a single bench and sought clarity from the petitioners on what specific private interest had been violated.

The Bench’s observations indicated that it was closely examining both the maintainability of the petition and the legal basis for halting the release.

Producer cites financial loss, artistic freedom

Counsel for the producer argued that preventing the film’s release on its scheduled date would result in significant financial losses. The producer also contended that the title and subject of the film fall within the ambit of artistic freedom of expression.

It was further submitted that the film does not insult Kerala and that creative choices, including naming the film, are protected under constitutional guarantees of free speech.

What happens next?

With theatres awaiting clarity and advance bookings affected, the Division Bench’s verdict is expected to provide immediate direction on whether ‘The Kerala Story 2’ can proceed with its theatrical release.

The decision is likely to have wider implications for similar legal challenges involving film certification and court-ordered stays on releases.