Jana Nayagan controversy: Madras HC steps in, orders CBFC to clear Vijay film

The film’s release, originally scheduled for January 9, was delayed after a complaint was submitted to the CBFC alleging that certain scenes hurt religious sentiments.

After examining the materials placed before the court, Justice P.T. Asha rejected the objection, observing that the complaint appeared to be an afterthought.

“After examining the materials, it is crystal clear that the complainant’s grievance appears to be an afterthought,” the judge said, as quoted by Live Law.

What is the controversy about?

Jana Nayagan ran into last-minute censorship and release hurdles just days before its planned theatrical debut, triggering public debate, legal action and political reactions.

Censor certificate delay

The film’s producers had submitted it to the CBFC in December 2025. Although the makers reportedly complied with suggestions made by the examining committee and agreed to certain modifications, the final censor certificate was not issued in time for the January 9 release.

The delay followed a complaint claiming that the film could hurt religious sentiments and allegedly portrayed sensitive subjects objectionably, leading to an unexpected re-review by the certification authority.

Legal battle with CBFC

Aggrieved by the delay, the makers approached the Madras High Court, alleging that the CBFC was “unreasonably withholding certification” despite the examining committee’s recommendations.