The Kerala High Court refused to stay release of a film allegedly based on the Venjaramoodu murder case, citing creative freedom. It held that apprehensions of trial influence and privacy harm were insufficient grounds to block the film’s release.
The Kerala High Court declined to block the release of Kaalam Paranja Kadha, a film believed to be inspired by the Venjaramoodu mass murder case. The petition was brought by the accused’s father, who contended that the film’s release could influence the ongoing trial and subject his family to public exposure.
The petitioner argued that releasing the film while the matter is before the Sessions Court in Thiruvananthapuram might affect judicial proceedings. He also claimed that the depiction could allow viewers to recognize the family, harming their dignity and privacy. The plea acknowledged the value of creative freedom but maintained it should not override the rights of people linked to real incidents.
The Venjaramoodu case alleges that a man named Afan killed five relatives and attempted to attack his mother. He is the lone accused, and the trial remains pending in the Principal Sessions Court in Thiruvananthapuram.
During the hearing, the High Court asked for specifics underlying the petitioner’s concerns. As reported by Live Law, the bench noted that films drawn from real events are common and sought an explanation for how such a release would directly disrupt a trial. The court also appeared skeptical of the defamation claim, suggesting such arguments might be weak in this context.
The court observed that the film had already undergone certification. Kaalam Paranja Kadha received a U/A 16+ certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) after review by its Revising Committee, with minor modifications such as muted words and added disclaimers.
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Addressing the bench, a CBFC counsel stated that the film does not directly replicate the real incident. They said key elements names, the specifics of events, and the method of the crime had been changed. The counsel further emphasized that the film intends to deliver a broader social message about the dangers of drug abuse and online gambling.
The petitioner countered that the CBFC had not fully considered his concerns and that the certification failed to account for the possible repercussions to his family’s reputation. The board, however, maintained the film is only loosely inspired by the case and would not compromise the fairness of the trial.
Ultimately, the petitioner narrowed his demand to a temporary stay on the film’s release until the trial concludes. After hearing both sides, the High Court refused the request, clearing the way for the film to be released.
Following the ruling, Kaalam Paranja Kadha is set to premiere while the related real-life case continues in court.
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