Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], June 19: The Karnataka government has filed an affidavit before the Supreme Court stating that it has not imposed any restrictions on the release of Kamal Haasan’s upcoming film Thug Life and is prepared to provide security if the producers proceed with screening it in the state.
The state’s response comes amid an ongoing controversy surrounding Haasan’s past remarks on the Kannada language, which sparked protests from pro-Kannada groups. In its affidavit, the state assured the court that safety and protection would be ensured for all those involved in the film’s release.
The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) had earlier written to Kamal Haasan requesting an apology for his statement suggesting that the Kannada language “originated” from Tamil. The remarks drew backlash from several Kannada activist groups.
One such organisation, the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, led by its president Praveen Shetty, clarified on June 18 that it is not opposing the release of Thug Life. However, Shetty maintained that Haasan should have offered a public apology, as previously advised by the Karnataka High Court. “We accept the order of the Supreme Court,” Shetty said, but expressed concern over the use of police force to curb protests, calling it a violation of constitutional rights.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar urged pro-Kannada groups to abide by the Supreme Court’s ruling. “We should all respect the court order in the Kamal Haasan case. No one should take the law into their own hands. Our state is a peace-loving state,” he said, appealing for calm and restraint.
The Supreme Court had earlier directed the Karnataka government to ensure that Thug Life is screened without disruption. The film’s release has become a flashpoint, as protests continue over Haasan’s linguistic remarks, which have been interpreted by some as an affront to Kannada identity.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing before the Supreme Court today, June 19.