Earlier this Tuesday, Karnataka's Deputy CM DK Shivakumar called upon Kannada activists to respect a Supreme Court directive that mandates the screening of Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam's film Thug Life in the state. The appeal follows a wave of protests by pro-Kannada groups angered by comments that Kamal made about the Kannada language, which they claim insulted its rich history.
Activists have vigorously opposed the film's release, staging protests, filing police complaints, and warning theaters against showing the film. Their actions prompted the Supreme Court to condemn the Karnataka government on Tuesday after Thug Life failed to hit the screen in state cinemas. The court emphasised that it would not permit "mob and vigilantes to take over streets."
Responding to the appellate court's order, the Deputy CM emphasised the importance of following it with honour and urged calmness from Kannada activists. "No one should take law into their hands," he said.
Noting that Karnataka is a peaceable state, as always, Shivakumar stated that its government provided the activists with an opportunity to express their opinion freely. At the same time, he asked for generosity from Bangaloreans. "We have accommodated all the castes, languages and culture in Bengaluru. This is an international city. The people of Karnataka have always been large hearted," said the state's Deputy CM.