Rajinikanth-starrer Kaala producer K Dhanush and wife Aishwarya have filed a petition in the Karnataka High Court seeking directions to the state government and Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) to allow hassle-free release of the film. The film is scheduled to release worldwide on June 7, however, KFCC had said that the film will not be allowed to screened or distributed in the state.
In the plea, Dhanush, who is Rajinikanth's son-in-law, submitted that it is the fundamental right of the petitioners under the Constitutionto exhibit the film.
"CBFC has issued a certification under Section 5B of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, for the release of 'Kaala' after following due process and adhering to all guidelines. After receiving such a certificate, it is the fundamental right of the petitioner under Article 19(1) of the Constitution to exhibit the film," the petitioners submitted.
The petitioners also have sought security at theatres and for movie-goers, directors, producers and cast associated with 'Kaala' in Karnataka.
They have made the government, home department, state police chief, Bengaluru city police commissioner, Central Board of Film Certification and KFCC as respondents in their plea.
The petitioners stated that KFCC took a decision to neither distribute nor screen 'Kaala' in Karnataka following Rajinikanth's alleged views on the Cauvery dispute, demanding release of water to Tamil Nadu as per Supreme Court direction.
The petitioners also said KFCC President Sa Ra Govindu on May 30 had issued a press statement saying the film will neither be distributed nor screened anywhere in Karnataka.
They also said the several pro-Kannada organisations had made representations to Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy requesting a ban on 'Kaala.'
The petition is likely to come up for hearing today. Meanwhile, controversial actor Prakash Raj has questioned the ban on Kaala in Karnataka.
"What's film #kaala got to do with Kaveri issue..? why is film fraternity targeted always..?Will Jds/congress government let fringe elements take law into their hands... like bjp did with #Padmavat.. or ..will you step in to assure common man.. his right for choice. #justasking..," tweeted the multi-lingual actor.
(With PTI Inputs)
Kaala Tamil Trailer starring Rajinikanth, Nana Patekar, Huma Qureshi, Easwari Rao
