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Amid the row around the titular character in JSK – Janaki Vs State of Kerala, the Kerala High Court announced its decision on Wednesday to view the film on May 05. "Considering the allegations in the writ petitions, I believe it is appropriate to view the movie before making any final decisions. The petitioner is directed to arrange a screening in an appropriate studio on Saturday at 10 am," stated HC Justice N Nagaresh. Subsequently, it is expected to deliver its final verdict on the case on May 09.
Earlier, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) blocked the June 27 release of the film, starring Suresh Gopi and Anupama Parameswaran as well as directed by Pravin Narayanan, citing the mention of Janaki, an alternative name for Goddess Sita. The film follows a woman's (Anupama) legal battle after a traumatic incident. The Censor Board has asked the film's makers to change the female protagonist's name, but the latter has been claiming that it is impossible due to the repeated mention of Janaki in the film.
The latest court order comes after the film's producer, Cosmos Entertainments moved CBFC for the issuance of its certificate. Abhinav Chandrachud, the legal representative of the Regional Officer of the CBFC, cited the makers' allegations in their new petition that challenge the board's revision committee's initial decision. Consequently, Abhinav has asked for time to register a counter-affidavit at the court, which the petitioner’s legal representative objected to, calling it a tactic to delay the issue and not a genuine request for additional time. The court denied the board's request for more time.
The court has recommended the presence of the board and the petitioner at the film's screening. However, at the recent hearing, the petitioner's legal representative questioned the practicality of the move, considering that it has been made for a theatrical release. Then again, none of the parties objected to the court's decision.
