Madras HC Sets Aside UA Certificate Order

CBFC–KVN Productions row over Jana Nayagan sent back for fresh hearing

January 27, 2026: The Madras High Court on Monday set aside its January 9 order in the legal dispute between the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and KVN Productions over the certification of Jana Nayagan. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and Justice G Arul Murugan allowed the CBFC’s appeal and remitted the matter to single judge Justice PT Asha, directing an expedited hearing after giving all parties a fair opportunity to present their case.

The bench observed that the earlier order granting a ‘UA’ certificate on grounds of natural justice was passed without allowing the CBFC sufficient time to file its counter-affidavit. The court clarified that the producer would be free to amend the prayer in the writ petition when the matter is reheard. The case was last heard on January 20, after which the High Court had reserved its order.

The ₹500-crore film, believed to be actor Vijay’s final project before his full-time political entry through Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), missed its planned Pongal release on January 9 and continues to await certification. Earlier, the makers had approached the Supreme Court, which declined to intervene and asked them to pursue the matter before the Madras High Court. The CBFC has objected to the film, citing concerns that certain scenes may hurt religious sentiments.