‘Jana Nayagan’ Certification Dispute Escalates to Supreme Court Amid CBI Probe into Karur Stampede

The controversy stems from the Madras High Court, where a single-judge bench initially directed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue a U/A 16+ certificate for the film. This order was subsequently stayed by a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and Justice G Arul Murugan following an appeal by the CBFC. The bench questioned the urgency of the earlier approval, asking why the matter was decided within just two days. The next hearing before the Madras High Court is scheduled for January 21, after the Pongal holidays.

KVN Productions has now moved the Supreme Court seeking to overturn the Division Bench’s order and reinstate the original certification, without which the film cannot be released theatrically. The Supreme Court has yet to announce a hearing date.

Adding to the scrutiny on Vijay, the actor-politician was recently questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Delhi over the September 27, 2025, Karur stampede, which claimed 41 lives and injured over 60 during a political rally. The probe is examining the roles of Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) functionaries, Tamil Nadu Police, and the actor himself. Vijay’s seven-hour delay in arriving at the rally is a key focus for investigators.

Nine individuals, including members of Vijay’s core team, have already been questioned. The CBI also summoned former Tamil Nadu ADG (Law & Order) S. Davidson Devasirvatham. The investigation is now overseen by a three-member supervisory committee led by former Supreme Court judge Ajay Rastogi, following a Supreme Court directive. Heavy security was deployed around the CBI office in Delhi in anticipation of a large gathering of Vijay’s supporters.

The legal and investigative developments have placed Vijay at a critical juncture, balancing his transition from cinema to politics. Observers note that the outcomes of the CBI probe and the Supreme Court decision could significantly influence his political credibility in Tamil Nadu, while also determining the fate of Jana Nayagan.