Introduction:

The Telangana High Court recently intervened in the release of the political thriller ‘Vyuham,’ suspending its exhibition certificate for three weeks. The decision came after a plea by the General Secretary of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) expressing concerns about the alleged defamatory portrayal of Party President Chandra Babu Naidu in the film. The Court, presided over by Justice Surepalli Nanda, scrutinized the certification process, particularly the absence of reasons for granting an exhibition certificate despite initial rejection due to alleged derogatory content and political symbol usage.

Arguments:

The petitioner from TDP argued that ‘Vyuham’ contained defamatory elements against Chandra Babu Naidu, warranting the cancellation of the exhibition certificate. On the other side, the respondents, including the Revising Committee, contended that thorough analysis led to the certification, citing the removal of the ‘based on true events’ disclaimer, presenting the film as a work of fiction.

Court’s Judgement:

Justice Surepalli Nanda delved into the certification process, emphasizing the lack of reasons provided for granting the exhibition certificate post-initial rejection due to derogatory content and political symbol usage, violating established guidelines. The Court highlighted violations of Cinematography Act guidelines and Rules 24 of the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 1983, owing to insufficient explanations for certification despite minimal deletions. Recognizing the fundamental right to expression, the Court balanced it against Article 21, emphasizing limitations on freedom of expression.

The Court suspended the ‘Vyuham’ exhibition certificate for three weeks, restraining its release based on the certificate. Furthermore, it directed the Central Board of Film Certification, Revising Committee, and movie producers to submit all relevant records for review in the subsequent hearing.