‘The Kerala Story’ Ban: SC Asks West Bengal, Tamil Nadu to Respond to Producers’ Plea

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has sought replies from the West Bengal and Tamil Nadu governments on a plea by the producers of the movie ‘The Kerala Story’ challenging the ban in the two states. The producers argued that the film is being screened without any issue in the rest of the country, and there is no reason for the ban.

A bench consisting of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice PS Narasimha questioned the West Bengal government’s decision to impose the ban, stating that if people don’t like the movie, they won’t watch it. The bench also asked the Tamil Nadu government to provide adequate security to theatres screening the film.

Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing the West Bengal government, cited intelligence inputs indicating a potential law and order problem, and that peace among different communities could be breached. Senior advocate Harish Salve, representing the producers, argued that theatres in Tamil Nadu are being threatened, leading to a de facto ban on the movie in the state.

The Supreme Court has issued notices to both states and asked them to file their responses by Wednesday, with the matter set to be heard on Thursday.