Kamal Haasan has approached the Karnataka High Court seeking directions to ensure the release and screening of his upcoming film ‘Thug Life’ on 5 June in the state.
Kamal Haasan has urged the court to direct the Karnataka state government, the police department, and film trade bodies not to obstruct the film’s release.
The petition also seeks instructions to the Director General of Police and the City Police Commissioner to ensure adequate security arrangements for the screening.
The move comes amid calls and threats from various pro-Kannada groups demanding a ban on the film over his recent controversial remarks about the origins of the Kannada language.
The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), complying with demands from pro-Kannada protesters, banned the release of the film in Karnataka. The KFCC announced the decision on May 30 following its 24-hour ultimatum to Kamal Haasan to issue a public apology.
Kamal Haasan, however, dismissed demands for a public apology, asserting that he would apologise only if he were in the wrong.
The actor came under fire in Karnataka for claiming that the Kannada language originated from Tamil, a remark that triggered strong opposition in the state.
