The Kerala High Court, on April 1, refused to stay the screening of the much-anticipated Mohanlal-starrer Empuraan, which was released in theaters on March 27.
The film sparked controversy after certain right-wing groups opposed its depiction of the 2002 Gujarat riots. BJP leader VV Vijeesh moved the High Court, citing concerns over potential communal unrest. However, the court dismissed the plea, questioning its intent.
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Justice CS Dias, while rejecting the plea, expressed doubts over the BJP leader’s motives, calling it a “publicity interest litigation.”
“Was it not certified by the Censor Board? Before the release of the movie, the statute contemplates that it has to be certified by the censor board. It has come out. What is the subsequent objection that is being raised? You are unnecessarily giving publicity to such things. I am suspecting your bonafides. All publicity-oriented litigation,” the judge remarked.
The court also questioned whether any violent incident had occurred due to the film, as it had already been in theaters for almost a week.
At this juncture, the Government Pleader informed the court that no legal case had been registered so far, indicating that the film had not caused any law-and-order issues.
Citing legal precedents, the Government Pleader referenced the judgment in Sebin Thomas v Union of India and other rulings, emphasizing that once a statutory certificate has been issued, the film is presumed to be fit for public viewing.
The Deputy Solicitor General of India represented the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, while the Standing Counsel appeared for the Enforcement Directorate. Additionally, the Government Pleader took notice on behalf of the Director General of Police. The court decided not to send notices to other parties.
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The matter has now been scheduled for hearing after the summer vacation.
Case Title: V. V. Vijeesh v The Secretary and Others
Case No: WP(C) 13500/ 2025
