HC dismisses PIL against ‘Mersal’
Team Udayavani, Oct 27, 2017, 2:39 PM IST
Chennai: The Madras High Court today dismissed a petition seeking to revoke the censor certificate issued to Vijay-starrer ‘Mersal’ over certain controversial dialogues relating to GST, holding that people’s right to freedom of expression applies to films also.
The petitioner in his PIL had contended that the movie contained scenes and dialogues, which were against the interests of the country’s sovereignty and integrity and the security of the state. “This is a democracy and people have their right to freedom of expression, and this applies to films as well,” a division bench comprising Justices MM Sundresh and M Sundar observed dismissing the plea by advocate A Ashvathaman.
“Even today the media has reported that the Leader of Opposition in the state has criticised demonetisation, can the court pass a gag order against him from making such statements,” the bench said. The petition contended there was apparent false information about GST and Digital India Scheme, which would encourage people to indulge in tax evasion.
Wondering how the Censor Board had issued certification for the above movie, the petitioner had said “the film was full of wrong propaganda about India and fake dialogues and scenes which obviously lead to misconception about the new taxation system (Goods and Service Tax).”
Coming down on the petitioner, the bench said, “if you were really concerned about public and the society you should have started campaigns against various social evils like untouchability and safety of women. But you choose to target a particular movie.”
Noting that the PIL had in fact helped the film get more publicity, the court dismissed the plea as devoid of merit.
The movie released on October 18, Diwali day, had kicked up a row with the BJP’s Tamil Nadu unit taking exception to references on GST and ‘Digital India’.
Udayavani is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel and stay updated with the latest news.
Top News
Related Articles More
No greater feeling than serving those in need: Outgoing CJI D Y Chandrachud
CJI Chandrachud: A legacy of landmark verdicts that shaped society and some controversy too
Akhilesh Yadav attacks BJP on demonetisation anniversary
DeMo paved way for monopolies by devastating MSMEs, informal sector: Rahul on note ban anniversary
Comply with order allowing minority student to attend St Stephen’s College: HC tells DU
MUST WATCH
Latest Additions
Unauthorized bus stops at signals fuel traffic woes and safety concerns
No greater feeling than serving those in need: Outgoing CJI D Y Chandrachud
Baikampady: Here, even elederly have to crawl under trains to cross tracks!
CJI Chandrachud: A legacy of landmark verdicts that shaped society and some controversy too
Neeraj Chopra to head to South Africa for off-season training later this month
Thanks for visiting Udayavani
You seem to have an Ad Blocker on.
To continue reading, please turn it off or whitelist Udayavani.