19-06-2025
'Thug Life' release: Karnataka government assures protection for screening
The Karnataka government has filed its response before the Supreme Court concerning the ongoing controversy over the release of Kamal Haasan's film Thug Life in the southern state.
In its affidavit, the state government clarified that it has not imposed any restrictions on the film's release and has assured to provide necessary protection if the producers decide to screen the movie in Karnataka.
The government also said it would ensure the safety of those involved in the film's release, provided the producers choose to go ahead with the screening.
However, the government noted that the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), the apex body of the Kannada film industry, had written to actor Kamal Haasan, the film's producer, requesting an apology for his controversial remarks about the Kannada language.
In the letter, the KFCC had expressed concerns over Haasan's comments that the Kannada language "originated" from Tamil, which led to protests by various groups.
On June 18, Praveen Shetty, president of the pro-Kannada organisation Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, clarified that his group was not opposed to the release of Thug Life.
However, he reiterated that Kamal Haasan should have apologised for his remarks.
Shetty emphasised that the controversy arose from Haasan's statement.
Despite the protests, Shetty also stated that curbing activism through the deployment of police was against the Constitution and the rule of law.
Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar, urged pro-Kannada organisations to abide by the Supreme Court's order regarding the release of the film.
The court had directed the state government to ensure the screening of Thug Life, despite the ongoing protests.
