Plea In Madras High Court Seeks To Revoke U/A Certificate For Rajnikanth-Starrer 'Jailer'

The Petitioner, ML Ravi, an advocate by profession has approached the court claiming that the movie, which had been given a “UA Certificate” by the Central Board of Film Certificate, thus allowing children below 12 years of age to watch the movie with their parent’s guidance, is in fact vulnerable to the youth and children, given the violent actions depicted in the film.

Ravi, who had watched the movie in theatres, claimed that the movie is full of physical violence. He added that the scenes justifying illegal, violent means to achieve success are common in the film which is contrary to Guideline No.2 of the Guidelines for certification of films for public exhibition (SO 836 (E), dated 6.12.1990).

He added that though there is freedom of speech and expression guaranteed in the society however, when the freedom of expression is intrinsically dangerous to the public interest, restrictions can be imposed. Relying upon a study conducted by the American Academy of Paediatrics, he informed that violence in movies has tripled and that exposing people especially children and youth to violent behaviors in films increases the likelihood that they behave aggressively afterwards.

He also submitted that though the movie is given a “UA certificate” in India, whereas in the UK and the USA the same movie is given an “A” certificate allowing only adults to watch the movie as it incites large violence. He stated that the Certification by the Board is unjust and not legal. It overrules Section 5 of the Cinematographic Act 1952, it is argued.

Thus, he requested the court to quash the Certificate issued by the Board to the film and also sought to stay the exhibition of the movie to the public till the final disposal of the case.