A division bench comprising Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and Justice G. Arul Murugan heard detailed arguments from both the film’s producers and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) before deciding to reserve its verdict. The court’s decision has left fans and industry stakeholders awaiting clarity on when the film can be released.
The delay stems from a certification dispute with the CBFC. Jana Nayagan, directed by H. Vinoth and produced by KVN Productions LLP, was submitted for certification on December 24. The examining committee recommended a U/A 16+ certificate, subject to 27 modifications. The producers accepted these changes, expecting the certification process to conclude smoothly.
However, on January 5, just days before the planned Pongal release, the CBFC chairperson referred the film to a Revising Committee. The referral followed a complaint from a dissenting member of the original examining committee, who alleged that certain objections were not properly recorded during the initial review. The move effectively stalled the certification process, prompting the producers to approach the High Court.
KVN Productions filed a writ petition challenging the CBFC’s decision, arguing that the referral was arbitrary and caused significant financial and reputational harm. The producers contended that once the examining committee’s recommendations were accepted and complied with, reopening the process was unjustified.
Earlier, the Supreme Court declined to intervene in the matter and directed that the issue be resolved by the Madras High Court by January 20. In compliance, the High Court took up the case and heard the matter at length but did not pass an immediate order.
The continued delay has heightened frustration among Vijay’s supporters, for whom Jana Nayagan carries added emotional weight. The film is widely seen as a symbolic farewell to Vijay’s acting career as he prepares to focus on his political journey.
With the High Court reserving its order, the release timeline of Jana Nayagan remains unclear. The case has once again drawn attention to the complexities of India’s film certification process and the impact of regulatory delays on big-budget productions. All eyes are now on the court’s forthcoming decision, which will determine whether the film can finally reach theatres.
