Vijay's Jana Nayagan Release on Hold: Madras HC Reserves Verdict Amid CBFC Controversy

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The Madras High Court has reserved its verdict on the release of Vijay's highly anticipated film, Jana Nayagan, after a heated hearing between the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and the film's producers. Justice PT Asha questioned the CBFC's decision to halt the certification process, citing a complaint from a member of the examining committee that was not recorded during the film's screening. The CBFC argued that the Chairperson had the authority to order a review of the film, despite it being cleared for release with a UA 16+ certificate on December 22. The producers, represented by senior counsel Satish Parasaran, questioned the delay in informing them about the film being sent to a revising committee and the lack of transparency in the process. They also pointed out that the complaint was filed after the committee's recommendations were recorded and that the e-Cinepramaan portal showed the examining committee recommending a UA 16+ certificate for the film. The CBFC's decision to halt the certification process has sparked controversy, with the producers claiming that they had already made the 27 cuts and tweaks recommended by the examining committee. The court has reserved its verdict, which is expected to be delivered on January 9, the scheduled release date of the film. Jana Nayagan, starring Vijay, Mamitha Baiju, Pooja Hegde, and Bobby Deol, was highly publicized as Vijay's final film before he contests in the Tamil Nadu elections this year. The film's release has been eagerly anticipated, with tickets selling for as high as ₹2000 in Karnataka, Kerala, and overseas. The case has highlighted the complexities of the CBFC's certification process and the need for transparency and accountability. The court's verdict will have significant implications for the film's release and the future of the CBFC's certification process.