The Kerala High Court on Thursday declined to examine a public interest litigation that sought a direction to change the title of the recently released film “The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond.” The petition requested the Court to remove the words “Kerala” or “Keralam” from the film’s title, arguing that it could harm the reputation of the State and its people.
A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Syam Kumar V.M. said similar issues are already under consideration in related cases pending before another Division Bench.
Background of the Case
The petitioners approached the Court seeking directions to the Union Government and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to ensure that the film is not exhibited, promoted, or streamed under a title containing the word “Kerala.”
They also asked the Court to direct authorities to include a disclaimer stating that the film is fictional and does not represent Kerala or any religious community. In addition, the petition urged the government to frame guidelines regulating film titles and promotional content to prevent alleged stereotyping of states or communities.
The dispute follows earlier litigation surrounding the film’s release. A Single Judge of the High Court had earlier stayed the film’s release after noting that scenes shown in the teaser might disturb communal harmony. However, the producer challenged that order, and a Division Bench later lifted the stay, observing that the CBFC had already viewed the entire film before granting certification.
During the hearing, the Bench noted that an appeal and another writ petition connected to the same issue are already pending before a coordinate Division Bench.
The Court observed,
“One writ petition and one appeal are already pending. At this stage, it would not be appropriate for us to intervene in this PIL.”
The judges also pointed out that passing an order in the present petition could create conflicting judicial views or weaken the earlier order permitting the film’s release.
The Bench also criticised the petitioners for making remarks in the petition suggesting that another Division Bench handled the earlier case in an “unprecedented” manner.
Chief Justice Sen remarked, “
You may criticise a judgment, but you cannot cast aspersions on another Bench. The institution of the Court must be respected.”
Following the Court’s observations, the petitioners’ counsel apologised and requested permission to amend the petition. The Bench allowed the PIL to be withdrawn with liberty to file a fresh plea, noting that the issues raised could be placed before the Bench already hearing related matters.
Case: Chandramohan K.C. and Anr. v. Union of India and Ors.
Case No.: WP(PIL) 49/2026
