The Kerala High Court has sought responses from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the producers of The Kerala Story 2 – Goes Beyond on a petition challenging the film’s certification and seeking a stay on its release. Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas issued notice on the plea filed by Kannur resident Sreedev Namboodiri, who claims the sequel could inflame communal tensions and disturb public order in the State. The matter is now slated for hearing on February 24.
The petition questions the CBFC’s decision to clear the sequel to the earlier controversial film The Kerala Story, which revolved around allegations of recruitment of women from Kerala into extremist groups. The petitioner contends that promotional material for the sequel suggests a similar narrative arc, allegedly associating terrorism and forced conversion with Kerala while portraying women from various States. He argues that the certification was granted without a rigorous assessment of its likely impact on public order, morality and decency as mandated under Section 5B of the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
Particular objection has been raised to phrases in the teaser and trailer, including the slogan “ab sahenge nahin… ladenge,” which the plea claims is a direct provocation that could incite unrest. The petition further asserts that branding the storyline as “The Kerala Story” creates a sweeping and misleading regional attribution, affecting the dignity and constitutional rights of the State’s residents.
Taking note of the allegations, Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas admitted the petition for consideration and directed the CBFC and the film’s producer, Sunshine Pictures, to file their replies. The Court has not stayed the release at this stage but will examine whether the statutory safeguards under the Cinematograph Act were adequately applied.
The petition specifically contends that the teaser’s closing line, “ab sahenge nahin… ladenge”, amounts to a call for confrontation, raising concerns over potential law and order implications. The Court will assess the challenge to the certification and the request for modifications or suspension of release at the next hearing.
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