Kerala Story 2 Teaser Under Scrutiny for Depicting State Negatively
Kerala High Court reviews 'Kerala Story 2' teaser, seeks Centre's stance.
The Kerala High Court is reviewing the teaser and trailer of the Hindi film 'The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond' after concerns were raised that it negatively portrays the people of Kerala. Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas observed that the film, scheduled for release on February 27, depicts the people of Kerala wrongly, who otherwise live in harmony. The court has sought the Central government's stance on screening the film. The petitioner argued that the film's teaser and trailer create prejudice against people from Kerala, associating alleged incidents of terrorism and forced conversion exclusively with the state. The court acknowledged the apprehension of the people of Kerala, given the film's title and the filmmakers' claim that it is inspired by true events, potentially leading to communal tension. The court has directed the Centre to provide instructions on whether the movie can be screened.
This case highlights the ongoing tension between freedom of expression and the potential for films to incite communal disharmony, a recurring issue in Indian polity and governance. This is relevant for UPSC exams, particularly GS Paper II (Polity and Governance) and GS Paper I (Social Issues).
Key Facts
The Kerala High Court is reviewing the film 'The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond'.
Concerns have been raised that the film wrongly portrays the people of Kerala.
The court has sought the Central government's stance on screening the film.
The film is slated for release on February 27.
The petitioner argued that the film's teaser and trailer create prejudice against people from Kerala.
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II (Polity and Governance): Freedom of speech and expression, reasonable restrictions, role of the judiciary
GS Paper I (Social Issues): Communal harmony, social tensions, impact of media on society
Potential question types: Analytical questions on the balance between freedom of expression and social responsibility, critical evaluation of the role of the CBFC
In Simple Words
A new movie called 'Kerala Story 2' is causing a stir. Some people worry it shows Kerala in a bad light. The court is now deciding if the movie should be shown, balancing the filmmakers' right to express themselves with the need to protect Kerala's image.
India Angle
In India, movies often reflect and influence public opinion. If a film unfairly portrays a community, it can lead to discrimination and prejudice. This is why courts sometimes step in to ensure movies are fair and don't spread hatred.
For Instance
Think of it like a news channel reporting on your neighborhood. If they only show negative stories, people might get the wrong idea about where you live. Similarly, a movie can shape how people see a state or community.
This matters because it affects how people see each other and can impact social harmony. Ensuring fair representation is important for a diverse society like India.
Fair representation matters: Movies should entertain, not spread prejudice.
The Kerala High Court is reviewing the teaser and trailer of the Hindi film 'The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond', following concerns that it wrongly portrays the people of Kerala. Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas noted that the film, slated for release on February 27, depicts the people of Kerala wrongly, who otherwise live in harmony. The court has sought the Central government's stance on screening the film.
The petitioner argued that the film's teaser and trailer create prejudice against people from Kerala, associating alleged incidents of terrorism and forced conversion exclusively with the state. The court acknowledged the apprehension of the people of Kerala, given the film's title and the filmmakers' claim that it is inspired by true events, potentially leading to communal tension. The court has directed the Centre to provide instructions on whether the movie can be screened.
Expert Analysis
The controversy surrounding 'The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond' brings to the forefront the complex interplay between artistic expression, societal harmony, and constitutional rights. The core issue revolves around the potential violation of Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and expression. However, this freedom is not absolute and is subject to reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2), which includes the interests of the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality or in relation to contempt of court, defamation or incitement to an offence. The court's intervention reflects the concern that the film's content might fall foul of these restrictions by potentially inciting communal disharmony and creating prejudice against a specific community.
The role of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) becomes crucial in this context. The CBFC is a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, established to regulate the public exhibition of films under the provisions of the Cinematograph Act, 1952. Its primary function is to ensure that films adhere to the guidelines set out in the Act, which include considerations of public order, morality, and the potential to incite violence or hatred. The CBFC's decision to certify or refuse certification to 'The Kerala Story 2' will be a key factor in determining whether the film can be screened legally. The current scrutiny by the Kerala High Court underscores the judiciary's role in safeguarding constitutional values and preventing the misuse of freedom of expression to promote divisive agendas.
The concept of communal harmony is deeply embedded in the Indian Constitution, which promotes secularism and equality among all citizens. The potential of a film to disrupt this harmony raises serious concerns, particularly in a country with a history of communal tensions. The court's directive to the Central government to provide its stance on the film's screening reflects the government's responsibility to maintain law and order and prevent any actions that could incite violence or discrimination. For UPSC aspirants, understanding the balance between freedom of expression and reasonable restrictions, the role of the CBFC, and the importance of communal harmony are crucial for both prelims and mains exams, particularly in the context of polity, governance, and social issues.
Visual Insights
Kerala: Focus of 'The Kerala Story 2' Controversy
This map highlights Kerala, the state at the center of the controversy surrounding the film 'The Kerala Story 2: Goes Beyond'. The film's depiction of the state has raised concerns about potential communal tensions.
Loading interactive map...
More Information
Background
Latest Developments
In recent years, there have been several instances of films facing legal challenges and controversies due to their content. The Supreme Court has often intervened to balance the right to freedom of speech and expression with the need to maintain public order and prevent incitement to violence. The guidelines for film certification have been periodically reviewed to address concerns about the portrayal of sensitive issues and the potential for films to promote divisive agendas. The government has also taken steps to promote media literacy and encourage responsible filmmaking.
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has been under increasing pressure to ensure that films do not violate constitutional values or promote communal disharmony. The CBFC's decisions have been subject to judicial review, highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in the film certification process. The government is expected to issue further guidelines on film certification to address emerging challenges and ensure that films are sensitive to the diverse social and cultural fabric of India. The outcome of the Kerala High Court's review of 'The Kerala Story 2' will likely influence future decisions on film certification and the regulation of artistic expression.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the controversy surrounding 'The Kerala Story 2' relate to the Cinematograph Act of 1952?
The Cinematograph Act of 1952 provides the legal framework for film certification in India. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) uses this act to ensure films adhere to guidelines that consider public order, morality, and the potential to incite communal tensions. The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between freedom of expression and the need to prevent films from promoting divisive agendas.
Exam Tip
Remember the year of the Cinematograph Act (1952) and the role of CBFC. UPSC might frame a question around the powers and limitations of CBFC concerning freedom of speech.
2. What specific aspect of this 'Kerala Story 2' situation makes it relevant to GS Paper 2 (Polity & Governance)?
The controversy directly relates to the balance between freedom of speech and expression (Article 19) and the state's responsibility to maintain public order and communal harmony. The court's intervention and the government's stance on screening the film are relevant to understanding the limits of free speech and the role of the judiciary in safeguarding constitutional values.
Exam Tip
When writing about this in Mains, structure your answer around the constitutional provisions related to freedom of speech, reasonable restrictions, and the role of the CBFC.
3. Why is the Kerala High Court involved, and what is the likely outcome of their review?
The Kerala High Court is involved because a petition was filed arguing that the film's teaser and trailer create prejudice against people from Kerala. The likely outcome could range from directing the filmmakers to make changes, issuing a stay order on the film's release, or allowing the release with a disclaimer. The court's decision will likely hinge on whether it believes the film violates constitutional rights or poses a threat to public order.
Exam Tip
Note the grounds on which the petition was filed. This illustrates how legal challenges to films often invoke concerns about public order and communal harmony.
4. If a Mains question asks me to 'Critically examine the role of films in shaping public perception,' what points should I include based on this news?
You should include points about: * The power of cinema to influence public opinion, both positively and negatively. * The importance of responsible filmmaking, especially when dealing with sensitive social and political issues. * The role of the CBFC in ensuring that films adhere to certain guidelines. * The need to balance freedom of expression with the need to maintain public order and communal harmony. * Examples of films that have sparked controversies and their impact on society.
Exam Tip
Frame your answer around the tension between Article 19 (freedom of speech) and Article 19(2) (reasonable restrictions).
5. How does this controversy reflect broader trends in India regarding freedom of expression and censorship?
This controversy is part of a larger trend where films dealing with sensitive or controversial topics often face legal challenges and public scrutiny. It highlights the ongoing debate about the limits of artistic freedom and the role of the state in regulating content that may be perceived as offensive or harmful. The increasing number of such controversies suggests a growing tension between creative expression and societal sensitivities.
6. What should be India's approach to balancing artistic freedom with the need to prevent communal disharmony in the context of films like 'The Kerala Story 2'?
India needs a balanced approach that respects artistic freedom while also taking into account the potential impact of films on communal harmony. This could involve: * Strengthening the CBFC's guidelines to ensure they are clear, consistent, and in line with constitutional values. * Promoting dialogue and engagement between filmmakers, religious leaders, and community representatives to address concerns and build consensus. * Encouraging responsible filmmaking that avoids sensationalism and promotes understanding and empathy. * Ensuring that legal challenges to films are handled expeditiously and fairly, with due regard for freedom of expression.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Article 19 of the Indian Constitution? 1. Article 19(1)(a) guarantees freedom of speech and expression. 2. Article 19(2) imposes reasonable restrictions on freedom of speech and expression in the interest of public order. 3. The restrictions mentioned in Article 19(2) are absolute and cannot be challenged in court.
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 and 3 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statement 1 is CORRECT: Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression to all citizens. Statement 2 is CORRECT: Article 19(2) allows the government to impose reasonable restrictions on this freedom in the interests of sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality or in relation to contempt of court, defamation or incitement to an offence. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: The restrictions mentioned in Article 19(2) are subject to judicial review and are not absolute.
2. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is a statutory body under which of the following ministries?
- A.Ministry of Culture
- B.Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
- C.Ministry of Home Affairs
- D.Ministry of Education
Show Answer
Answer: B
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. It regulates the public exhibition of films under the provisions of the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
3. Which of the following is NOT a function of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC)?
- A.To certify films for public exhibition
- B.To ensure that films adhere to guidelines set out in the Cinematograph Act, 1952
- C.To promote film production in India
- D.To consider public order and morality while certifying films
Show Answer
Answer: C
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is primarily responsible for certifying films for public exhibition and ensuring that they adhere to the guidelines set out in the Cinematograph Act, 1952. Promoting film production is not its direct function.
Source Articles
Kerala HC seeks screening of ‘The Kerala Story 2’ after finding teaser, trailer ‘portray State wrongly’ - The Hindu
The Kerala Story 2’ pleas are premature, misconceived, says producer to Kerala HC - The Hindu
The Kerala Story 2: 'Not interested in watching', says State BJP chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar - The Hindu
Explained | ‘The Kerala Story’: Can a work of fiction or art constitute ‘hate speech’? - The Hindu
Keralites roast ‘The Kerala Story 2’ trailer with ‘beef-porotta’ jibes on social media - The Hindu
About the Author
Anshul MannPublic Policy Enthusiast & UPSC Analyst
Anshul Mann writes about Polity & Governance at GKSolver, breaking down complex developments into clear, exam-relevant analysis.
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