The Kerala High Court intervened in the issue of violence on the reality show Bigg Boss, directing action against it. Notices sent to actor Mohanlal, along with Disney and Asianet, the show’s producers and broadcasters. This move comes amidst growing concerns about the content and impact of reality TV programs in India. The court’s intervention signals a potential shift in regulatory oversight for such shows.
Kerala: The Kerala High Court recently instructed the Central government to address the broadcast of violent scenes in the Malayalam reality show Bigg Boss. A Bench of Justices A Muhamed Mustaque and MA Abdul Hakhim viewed the matter seriously and directed the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to promptly handle any breaches of its advisories.
The Court added,
“This could even involve ordering the cessation of such shows’ telecast on electronic media.”
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The Court also served notices to Malayalam actor Mohanlal, who hosts the show, production company Endemol Shine India, and broadcasters Asianet and Disney Star.
Additionally, notice served to Haseeb SK, also known as ASI Rocky, who physically assaulted a fellow contestant in a recent episode of the show.
The directive issued based on a petition filed by a practicing High Court lawyer. The petition sought instructions for the Centre to take immediate action to stop the broadcast of Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 6. The petitioner’s argument centered on the show’s instances of physical assault, which are in violation of directives and advisories from the Central government.
The latest incident on the show saw a physical altercation between contestants ASI Rocky and Sijo John, resulting in Rocky’s eviction.
The petitioner argued that Asianet’s promotional efforts related to this incident violated broadcasting regulations stated in the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and associated program and advertising codes.
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He also contended that Mohanlal’s interactions with the contestants highlighted the gravity of the situation.
The petition raised concerns about potential violations of fundamental rights, breaches of broadcasting regulations, potential criminal offenses, and risks to public safety and morality. He claimed that airing physical assaults on national television infringes upon viewers’ fundamental rights, particularly the rights to privacy and dignity guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution.
The Court emphasized,
“This issue is of significant concern,” as it instructed the Centre to take suitable action.”
The Court granted permission to the petitioner to forward a copy of the violent scenes to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
The next hearing for this matter scheduled for May 20.
The petitioner, advocate Adarsh S, appeared in court in person.
Read Order: [Adv. Adarsh S v. Union of India & Ors.].
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