Chennai, 24 February (H.S.) : The Kerala High Court on Tuesday observed that the film ‘The Kerala Story 2 - Goes Beyond’ depicts the state in a wrong light, specifically targeting its reputation for communal harmony.

Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, while hearing multiple petitions seeking to quash the film’s public viewing certificate, noted that using the state's name while claiming the movie is based on true facts could potentially incite communal tensions. The court emphasized that Kerala is a state where people of different faiths coexist peacefully, and such portrayals could disturb the existing social fabric.

The legal proceedings involve three separate pleas, including one filed by Sreedev Namboodiri from Kannur district. The petitioner argued that the film was certified by the Central Board of Film Certification without adhering to the statutory mandates of the Cinematograph Act, 1952.

The petition further highlighted that while the teaser and trailer involve narratives from multiple states, branding the entire content under the title of Kerala associates the state exclusively with alleged incidents of terrorism and forced conversions. This portrayal, according to the petitioner, has the potential to stigmatize the local population and incite regional disharmony.

During the arguments, the producers of the film informed the court of their willingness to withdraw the controversial teasers. However, the court indicated that it is inclined to watch the film before passing any final orders regarding its scheduled release on February 27.

The bench has also sought clarification from the censor board on whether the movie complies with all mandatory guidelines. The matter is set for further hearing on Wednesday, where the court will decide on the next course of action regarding the certification and the proposed title modifications.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary