Madras High Court Orders CBFC to Issue U/A 16+ Certificate for Vijay’s Jana Nayagan

In a significant relief for the producers of actor Vijay’s upcoming film Jana Nayagan, the Madras High Court has directed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to approve the movie for theatrical release.

The much awaited film Jana Nayagan, starring Vijay, had faced delays due to growing disputes over its censor certification. However, recent developments confirm that the Madras High Court has instructed the CBFC to issue a U/A 16+ certificate, clearing the way for the film’s release.

Madras High Court Orders U/A 16+ Certification

On Friday, reports confirmed that the Madras High Court ordered the CBFC to grant a U/A 16+ certificate to Jana Nayagan. Marking a major legal victory for the film’s team, the court directed the censor board to complete the certification process and allow the movie to be released.

This decision follows the court reserving its verdict during the previous hearing held on Wednesday. The matter was argued before the Madras High Court on Wednesday afternoon, where a lawyer representing KVN Productions and the Additional Solicitor General (ASG) appearing for the CBFC presented their arguments regarding the fate of Vijay’s film. After hearing submissions from both sides, Justice PT Asha reserved the order.

During the proceedings, it was revealed that the complaint which stalled the film’s certification ahead of its planned January 9 release had been filed by a member of the examining committee. The ASG further stated that the decision to pause the certification process was taken by the CBFC Chairperson. These points emerged as key observations during the case.

ASG ARL Sundaresan, representing the CBFC, submitted the complaint related to Jana Nayagan before the court and clarified that it was raised by an examining committee member. He noted that the objections were not recorded at the time the film was initially screened. The ASG also argued that the CBFC Chairperson has the authority to call for a review even after the examining committee has viewed the film, which was done in this case.

About the Film

Directed by H Vinoth, Jana Nayagan stars Vijay alongside Mamitha Baiju, Pooja Hegde, and Bobby Deol. The film was originally scheduled for release on January 9, coinciding with the Pongal festival. It has received widespread attention as Vijay’s last film before entering active politics and contesting the Tamil Nadu elections this year under the banner of TVK.

Despite delays in obtaining censor approval, advance bookings opened in Karnataka, Kerala, and overseas markets, with ticket prices reportedly reaching as high as Rs 2000. During court hearings held on January 6 and 7, the production company’s legal counsel informed the court that nearly Rs 500 crore was financially invested and at risk due to the certification delay.