Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Thursday allowed the release of the film The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond after a Division Bench set aside an earlier interim stay imposed by a Single Bench.
The Division Bench, while hearing an appeal filed by the film’s producers, vacated the temporary stay order that had restrained the release of the movie. The earlier order had directed a re-examination of the certification granted to the film by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
Background of the Case
The sequel to the controversial 2023 film The Kerala Story was scheduled for theatrical release after receiving a U/A certificate from the CBFC. However, petitions were filed before the Kerala High Court alleging that the film contained sensitive and potentially inflammatory content. The petitioners sought a stay on the release, arguing that certain portions of the film could create communal disharmony and disturb public order.
Acting on these petitions, a Single Bench of the High Court had temporarily stayed the release for 15 days and directed that concerns regarding certification be examined.
Division Bench Verdict
Hearing the appeal against the interim stay, the Division Bench observed that courts must exercise caution while intervening in matters related to film certification, particularly when a statutory authority like the CBFC has already granted approval.
The Bench noted that unless there is a clear violation of law or compelling evidence of harm, judicial interference at the stage of release should be limited. It held that the earlier stay order was not justified under the circumstances and accordingly vacated it, allowing the film’s release to proceed.
Court’s Observations
The Division Bench emphasized:
- The CBFC is the designated statutory authority responsible for examining films.
- Courts should not ordinarily substitute their opinion for that of expert bodies.
- Pre-release censorship beyond statutory certification requires strong legal grounds.
With the stay lifted, the producers are now free to release the film in theatres as scheduled.
Continuing Debate
Despite the court’s decision, the film continues to generate debate on social and political platforms. Critics maintain that the content may be controversial, while the filmmakers have defended the project as a work of creative expression.
