Petition Before SC - Requesting A Halt Of The Release Of "The Kerala Story" On Various Platforms

On Tuesday, the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind filed a request with the Supreme Court to halt the release of "The Kerala Story" on various platforms, including theatres and OTT. They argued that the film's release could lead to animosity between different sections of Indian society and endanger the lives and livelihoods of Muslims, as the movie allegedly demeans the entire Muslim community.

According to the petition, the movie aims to spread hatred and hostility among different segments of Indian society.

Additionally, the film reportedly depicts ordinary Muslim youths, including their classmates, playing a pivotal role in radicalizing non-Muslims by posing as friendly and good-natured, following instructions from extremist scholars.

The petition seeks a stay on the film's release and the removal of the trailer from the internet. Alternatively, the petition requests that the Central Board of Film Certification provide guidance on deleting specific scenes and dialogue from the movie. Another suggestion made in the petition was for the Supreme Court to mandate the release of the movie with a disclaimer stating that it is a work of fiction and that none of the characters in the movie bear any resemblance to any living or deceased person.

The film 'The Kerala Story' faced criticism from various groups even before its release. In Kerala, both the ruling CPI(M) and the opposition Congress party alleged that the movie promotes a false narrative and agenda of right-wing organizations.

Today, advocate Nizam Pasha mentioned an application for a stay on the movie's release before the Supreme Court bench of Justices KM Joseph and BV Nagarathna, requesting an urgent listing. However, the Court declined the request and advised the petitioner to approach the High Court or mention it to the Chief Justice of India. Despite this, no further action was taken on the plea.

Another petitioner approached the Kerala High Court today to seek a stay on the film's release. The High Court has requested responses from the Central government, the CBFC, and the movie's producers.