Jana Nayagan Movie Case Verdict Update: Major setback for Vijay’s ‘Jana Nayagan’, court sends the matter back to the single judge

Today, January 27, the first Division Bench of the Madras High Court will pronounce orders on a writ appeal filed by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) challenging a single judge's order directing it to issue a 'UA' 16+ certificate for actor Vijay’s final film 'Jana Nayagan'. Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and Justice G Arul Murugan will pronounce the verdict in a few hours, and all eyes are on it.

‘Jana Nayagan’ marks Vijay’s final film, before he fully turns to politics. The film is directed by H Vinoth. Starring Vijay, the film also features Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, Prakash Raj, Priyamani, Narain, Gautham Vasudev Menon, and Mamitha Baiju in pivotal roles.

‘Jana Nayagan’ was originally slated for release on January 9, for the Pongal festivities, but was postponed at the last minute after the Central Board of Film Certification refused to issue a censor certificate to the film. On December 18, KVN Productions submitted the Vijay starrer 'Jana Nayagan' to the Central Board of Film Certification for certification. Between December 19 and 22, the examining committee of the board, consisting of five members watches the movie, and recommended a U/A 16+ certificate, subject to certain cuts and changes, which the filmmakers complied with. The producers made the cuts and resubmitted the film, and allegedly sent numerous emails to the CBFC; however, didn't get a response. Meanwhile, on December 27, the makers of the film held a grand audio launch, with Vijay in attendance.

On January 5, the CBFC's chairman referred the film back to the revising committee, under the certification rules. This was reportedly triggered by an internal complaint from a member of the examining committee, citing that the film hurt religious sentiments and contained an objectionable portrayal of the armed forces. On January 6, the producers approached the Madras HC file an emergency plea for the issuance of the certificate. On January 7, the single judge hears both sides and reserves judgment. The makers announce postponement, and on January 9, a single judge directs CBFC to set aside the Chairperson's referral and grant UA 16+ certification. However, within hours, the CBFC immediately appeals to a division bench and obtains a stay on the order. On January 12, the producers approached the Supreme Court against the Madras HC stay, but the SC declined to intervene. On January 20, the Madras HC heard both sides but reserved judgment. Today, January 27, in a few hours, the Madras High Court will pronounce the verdict on CBFC's appeal against the earlier certification order.