On June 13, 2025, the Supreme Court (Justices Prashant K. Mishra and Manmohan) issued a notice to the State of Karnataka on a PIL filed by Mahesh Reddy. This challenge addresses what’s being called an “extra-judicial ban” on Thug Life, but there was no lawful order—only threats and crowd pressure—that prevented the Tamil film from screening in the state.

The petition contends that extremist groups threatened cinema halls, igniting credible fears of arson, and thus impeding the film—despite its certification by the CBFC. The bench has posted Karnataka’s response hearing for next Tuesday.

June 9: A plea from the Karnataka Theatre Association and the film’s producers seeking urgent SC intervention was declined, with the court directing them to first approach the Karnataka High Court.

The HC had earlier advised Haasan to issue an apology for saying “Kannada was born out of Tamil,” but he refused. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce then imposed a ban, blocking the movie’s release in the state.

Want a breakdown of the legal arguments, or updates on the Kannada groups joining the petition or the High Court’s stand? Just let me know!

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