The censor controversy surrounding Thalapathy Vijay‘s much-anticipated Tamil film Jana Nayagan has taken another turn. The Madras High Court division bench has stayed the single judge order that granted a U/A certificate to the film. The hearing has been adjourned to January 21, leaving the film’s release status uncertain.
The CBFC has appealed the earlier order to the Chief Justice, keeping Jana Nayagan‘s theatrical release in limbo despite advance bookings and massive audience interest.
Single Judge Had Ordered Immediate Certification
A single-judge bench led by Justice P.T. Asha had earlier intervened in the matter and set aside a directive that referred the film to a Revising Committee. The judge ordered the CBFC to issue the U/A certificate immediately.
The court observed that once the Examining Committee had recommended a U/A certification subject to certain excisions and those cuts had been carried out by the makers, the certificate should follow automatically. Justice Asha noted that objections raised afterward by a single member were effectively an afterthought.
CBFC Appeals Against Single Judge Order
However, the CBFC has appealed the order to the Chief Justice, arguing that the single judge did not provide an opportunity for the board to file a counter-affidavit. The board contended that the judge exceeded the scope of relief requested.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that a single judge cannot reshuffle the certification process and that the Chairman retains the right to refer a film to the Revising Committee under rules.
Producers Highlight Compliance With Cuts
Counsel for the producers KVN Productions LLP reiterated that the regional CBFC office had informed them on December 22, 2025, that the film would receive a U/A certificate after stipulated cuts were made. The makers complied with the required cuts, and only formal issuance was pending.
Justice Asha’s order had stressed that the CBFC Chairperson acted without jurisdiction in reopening certification after the Examining Committee had cleared the film.
Release Remains In Limbo
With the appeal to the Chief Justice, enforcement of the single judge’s order is now stayed. The matter has been adjourned for further hearing on January 21. This means Jana Nayagan‘s release remains uncertain despite the planned January 9 theatrical release and the crucial Pongal 2026 release window.
About Jana Nayagan
Jana Nayagan is an upcoming Tamil film directed by H. Vinoth and starring Thalapathy Vijay in the lead role. The film also features Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, and Mamitha Baiju. Produced by KVN Productions LLP, the film has been embroiled in a censor controversy with the Madras High Court. The next hearing is scheduled for January 21, 2026.
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