Kerala High Court To Watch 'Haal' Film To Decide Christian Outfit's Appeal, Says Costs Will Be Imposed If There Is No Objectionable Content
The Kerala High Court on Saturday (November 29) agreed to watch Malayalam movie 'Haal' starring Shane Nigam before deciding the writ appeal preferred by the Catholic Congress challenging the Single Judge's decision quashing A-certification, cuts to the movie.The Division Bench comprising Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari and Justice P.V. Balakrishnan told that exemplary costs would be...
The Kerala High Court on Saturday (November 29) agreed to watch Malayalam movie 'Haal' starring Shane Nigam before deciding the writ appeal preferred by the Catholic Congress challenging the Single Judge's decision quashing A-certification, cuts to the movie.
The Division Bench comprising Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari and Justice P.V. Balakrishnan told that exemplary costs would be imposed if there is no objectionable content in the movie as alleged by the Christian outfit. The Single Judge had viewed the movie last month before deciding the film-makers' plea.
"But if we find that there is nothing in that, we would impose costs. Because learned Single judge has already seen that. Why to disbelieve him? But now since it is an appeal therefore, we have to see. Otherwise, there was no need to see the movie at all...There will be a cost if there is nothing. We are very clear there will be exemplary costs if it is dismissed, the Bench orally said.
The Court also directed the appellant's counsel to file a memo with column containing the time stamps in the movie where they have objections. It passed the following interim order:
"This matter was heard yesterday. However, while dictating the order, we are of the opinion that unless we see the movie, this matter cannot be decided. Therefore, the learned counsel for the 1st respondent is requested to arrange for the exhibition of the movie on Wednesday, December 3, after 7 p.m."
The counsel for both sides are also directed to be present at the venue when the film along with English subtitles would be exhibited.
"I'll be seeing my first Malayalam movie. Chalo, it will be a good experience," Justice Dharmadhikari remarked in a lighter vein.
The case is posted on December 4 (Thursday) for further consideration after the Court views the movie.
The appeal is moved by Advocates Mariya Rajan, Shinu J. Pillai, S. Suja, Ann Mariya John and Felix Samson Varghese. Senior counsel Joseph Kodianthara and Advocates John Vithayathil, E.S. Saneej are representing the filmmakers.
Case No: WA 2803/2025
Case Title: Catholic Congress v. Juby Thomas and Ors.