The controversy over the delayed release of actor Vijay’s upcoming film Jana Nayagan intensified on Wednesday after senior Congress leader Girish Raya Chodankar, the AICC in-charge for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, issued a sharp public criticism of the Centre, accusing it of political interference in the film’s censorship process.

The film’s release was recently postponed due to pending clearance from the Censor Board, triggering speculation over political pressure. Weighing in on the issue, Chodankar tagged the Prime Minister’s Office in a strongly worded post, alleging misuse of power and warning against attempts to control artistic expression in Tamil Nadu.
 

Chodankar wrote that while political differences are understandable, “targeting an artist’s work is unacceptable”. He said the people of Tamil Nadu would not tolerate “censorship of cinemas for political gains” and urged the Centre to ensure that art and entertainment are not turned into “pawns in political battles”.

He accused the government of causing delays in the release of ‘Jana Nayagan’, saying the pressure placed on authorities was “unfair to the producers and fans”.

In a direct challenge to the Prime Minister, he added:

“Modi Ji, prove your 56-inch chest claim by taking on POLITICIAN Vijay, not ACTOR Vijay.”

He further cautioned the BJP leadership that “your politics of intimidation won’t work in Tamil Nadu.”

Chodankar’s pointed remarks have escalated the political tension surrounding Jana Nayagan, turning a censorship-related delay into a wider confrontation between the Congress and the Centre over artistic freedom in the state.