Supreme Court: Cannot Order Kamal Haasan to Apologize in Kannada Language Row — Banning a Certified Film Not Acceptable
Amid the ongoing Kannada language controversy, the Supreme Court has delivered a clear ruling stating that it cannot direct actor Kamal Haasan to issue an apology for his remarks.
This ruling came after Kamal Haasan’s team approached the apex court challenging the ban imposed on his film Thug Life in Karnataka.
For Kamal Haasan and his team, who strongly believed that the court is the final hope for justice, this verdict has come as a major relief.
Hearing the case, the Supreme Court made it clear:
- A properly certified film cannot be banned.
- The Karnataka government must ensure security at theatres screening the film.
- No order can be passed compelling Kamal Haasan to apologize for his comments on the Kannada language.
The court has also directed the Karnataka government to file its response by Thursday, June 19, 2025.
While Kamal Haasan’s side has welcomed the judgment with satisfaction, they are also aware that since Thug Life has already released globally and received mixed reviews, the verdict may not significantly change its box office fortunes — but it stands as a victory for artistic freedom.
