Kerala High Court issues notice on plea to quash certification of ‘The Kerala Story 2’

The Kerala High Court on Thursday issued notice to the makers of “The Kerala Story 2 - Goes Beyond” , along with the Central Board of Film Certification and the Union Government, on a plea seeking to quash the film’s certification and halt its release.

The writ petition was filed by Sreedev Namboodiri, a resident of Kannur district, who has challenged the certification granted under the Cinematograph Act, 1952 . The petitioner has named the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the CBFC, and producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah as respondents.

A bench led by Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas issued notices to all parties and posted the matter for further hearing on February 24 . The film is scheduled for release on February 27 .

In his plea, the petitioner alleged that the CBFC granted certification without due compliance with statutory safeguards , particularly those laid down under Section 5B of the Act , which mandates that films must not affect public order, decency, or morality. He contended that the teaser and trailer portray narratives involving women from multiple states but brand the content under the title “The Kerala Story,” thereby associating allegations of terrorism, forced conversion, and demographic conspiracy exclusively with Kerala.

The petition argued that such portrayal could stigmatise an entire regional population , potentially disturbing public order and fostering communal or regional disharmony. It also referred to controversies surrounding the first installment of the film, noting that issues related to alleged false claims had previously come under judicial scrutiny before the Supreme Court.

Seeking urgent intervention, the petitioner has asked the court to quash the certification, suspend the film’s release , and direct modifications including reconsideration of the title and insertion of adequate disclaimers. He invoked constitutional protections under Articles 14, 19(2), and 21, asserting that statutory authorities must act strictly in accordance with law .

The High Court’s notice sets the stage for a significant legal examination of the balance between freedom of expression and public order concerns ahead of the film’s planned release.