TN Police to Protect Theatres Screening ‘Kingdom’: Madras HC
In a recent development, the Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu state police to provide protection to movie theatres screening Vijay Deverakonda-starrer ‘Kingdom’ amid ongoing protests. This decision was made in response to a petition filed by SSI production, the producers of the film, seeking police protection and to restrain Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) Chief Coordinator Seeman and his followers from interfering with the screening of the film.
As per the petition, Seeman and his followers have been protesting against the film, claiming that it contains anti-Tamil content and is an attempt to destabilize the Tamil people. The protests have led to the cancellation of several screenings of the film in Tamil Nadu, causing significant losses to the producers and affecting the livelihoods of hundreds of people employed in the film industry.
In its petition, SSI production sought the court’s intervention to curb the protests and ensure the smooth screening of the film. The court, while hearing the petition, directed the Tamil Nadu police to provide protection to the movie theatres screening ‘Kingdom’ and to take necessary measures to prevent any obstruction or disruption of the film’s screening.
The court’s decision is seen as a significant step towards ensuring the freedom of expression and the right to entertainment for the people of Tamil Nadu. The film ‘Kingdom’, directed by Prasanth Varma, is a pan-India production that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and patriotism. The film has been well-received by audiences and critics alike, and its success is expected to boost the morale of the film industry in Tamil Nadu.
The protests against ‘Kingdom’ are not a new phenomenon. Ever since the film’s trailer was released, Seeman and his followers have been vocal about their opposition to the film, claiming that it is an attempt to promote the interests of the Telugu people and undermine the Tamil people. The protests have been largely peaceful, but they have still managed to disrupt the screening of the film in several parts of the state.
The court’s decision to provide police protection to the movie theatres screening ‘Kingdom’ is seen as a blow to Seeman and his followers, who have been trying to use intimidation and coercion to disrupt the film’s screening. The police protection will ensure that the film can be screened without any obstruction or disruption, and that the people of Tamil Nadu can enjoy their right to entertainment without fear of violence or intimidation.
The Madras High Court’s decision has also been welcomed by the film industry in Tamil Nadu, which has been reeling under the impact of the protests. The industry has been facing significant losses due to the cancellation of several film screenings, and the court’s decision is expected to provide a much-needed boost to the industry.
In a statement, SSI production thanked the Madras High Court for its prompt intervention and the Tamil Nadu police for their commitment to ensuring the smooth screening of ‘Kingdom’. The production house also appealed to the people of Tamil Nadu to maintain peace and harmony, and to respect the right of the people to enjoy their favorite films without fear of violence or intimidation.
The controversy surrounding ‘Kingdom’ has also highlighted the need for greater tolerance and understanding among different communities in India. The film industry has always been a symbol of unity and harmony, bringing people together across languages and cultures. The protests against ‘Kingdom’ are a reminder that even in this age of technological advancement, there is still a need for greater tolerance and understanding among different communities.
In conclusion, the Madras High Court’s decision to provide police protection to movie theatres screening ‘Kingdom’ is a significant step towards ensuring the freedom of expression and the right to entertainment for the people of Tamil Nadu. The film industry has always been a vital part of the state’s cultural heritage, and it is essential that the people of Tamil Nadu are able to enjoy their favorite films without fear of violence or intimidation.
