Kozhikode: Jolly Joseph, the accused in the infamous Koodathayi murder case, petitioned the Kerala High Court seeking to halt the broadcast of the web series Anali. However, Justice V.G. Arun, who issued notices to the opposing parties, refused to grant an interim stay on the series’ release.

The petition argued that the plot of Anali bears similarities to the Koodathayi murder case and, for this reason, its release should be prohibited. The court, however, clarified that having certain similarities in the series’ teaser does not justify a stay based on assumptions or speculative claims. The court also directed that the Central Government be made a party to the case.

“There is nothing concrete apart from the teaser, which shows only some resemblance to the matter at hand. The series has not been broadcast yet, and I am not going to issue a stay at this stage. Mere assumptions and speculations cannot justify such action. One must also consider artistic freedom. Where is the law that completely forbids drawing inspiration from real events? How many films have been made on real cases—from Sukumara Kurup onwards? The difference here is that the matter is still under trial, which is valid. But cases are not decided based on films, are they?,” the judge noted.

Anali is directed by Midhun Manuel Thomas, starring Nikhila Vimal and Leona Lishoy in lead roles. The matter is scheduled for further consideration on January 15.

Jolly Joseph is accused of murdering six members of her family, including her first husband, by administering cyanide. (With inputs from Agencies)