Tamil superstar Thalapathy Vijay has landed in a tricky situation with his upcoming film Jana Nayagan. The film was expected to release during Sankranti but has failed to reach theatres so far.
Earlier, a single bench of the Madras High Court* directed the censor department to grant a U/A certificate to the film. This order initially came as relief to the makers.
However, the decision was challenged by the CBFC* at the division bench. On this challenge, the Madras High Court delivered a crucial verdict today.
The Division Bench cancelled the earlier order that favoured the film. It remanded the case back to the single judge for fresh consideration, stating that the CBFC must be given a fair opportunity to present its case.
The court observed that the certification body was not properly heard earlier. It added that the single judge should not have examined the merits of the issue without allowing the CBFC to put forth its arguments.
The matter has now been sent back to the single judge with directions for an expedited hearing. The CBFC has been permitted to file its detailed response before the case is reconsidered.
This development suggests that Jana Nayagan could face a prolonged legal battle. Due to extended court proceedings, the film may not see a release in the near future if the makers continue to pursue the case legally.
Adding to the uncertainty, the upcoming Tamil Nadu elections* could further delay the release. All these factors together point to a possible postponement to a much later date.