Karnataka Govt Ensures Theatre Security After SC Order on Kamal Haasan's Thug Life Screening

The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Karnataka government to resolve issues hindering the screening of Kamal Haasan's film Thug Life in the state. In response, the state assured the court it would provide security to theatres showing the movie, according to a PTI report.

A bench comprising Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan emphasized that no film or performance should be disrupted due to controversial statements that hurt sentiments. They urged the government to prevent any “divisive elements” from threatening the film’s release.

Following the state’s assurance, the court closed the public interest litigation (PIL), stating that no further directions were necessary.

This order came in response to a plea filed by M Mahesh Reddy, who sought protection for cinemas in Karnataka over concerns related to the film's non-screening. Earlier, the court warned against mob threats and vigilante actions, affirming that such acts cannot dictate a film’s release.

The Karnataka government also informed the court that the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) had contacted Kamal Haasan, asking him to apologize for his remarks about the Kannada language.