The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Karnataka government to take firm action against any individuals or groups obstructing the screening of the upcoming film Thug Life, starring veteran actor Kamal Haasan. The apex court emphasized that mob pressure and vigilantism cannot be permitted to dictate artistic expression or public order.
A bench comprising Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan made the observations while disposing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by M. Mahesh Reddy, who challenged the non-screening of the film in theatres across Karnataka.
The court recorded the state government’s assurance that adequate security would be provided to cinema halls willing to screen the film. It reiterated that any “divisive elements” attempting to disrupt the release must be dealt with promptly and firmly.
“We do not want a situation where someone’s sentiment is hurt by a dialogue, a movie is stopped, a stand-up show is cancelled, or an artist is prevented from reciting a poem,” the bench observed, stressing the need to protect constitutional freedoms, including artistic expression.
The matter was closed following the government’s assurance, with the court noting that no additional guidelines or directions were necessary at this stage.
Earlier, on June 17, the top court had pulled up the Karnataka government over the alleged inaction in ensuring the film’s screening, stating that “mobs and vigilantes cannot be allowed to take over the streets.”
