Kerala HC To Screen ‘The Kerala Story 2’ Amid Petition Over ‘True Story’ Claim

The Kerala High Court will view The Kerala Story 2 on Wednesday while hearing a petition challenging the film’s portrayal of events claimed to be based on a ‘true story’.

Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, who is presiding over the matter, decided to personally watch the film before passing further orders. The petitioners have argued that their concerns cannot be dismissed, particularly as the film is promoted as being inspired by real incidents.

According to the plea, describing the film as a true story lends authenticity to its narrative and could influence public perception. The petitioners contend that if the depiction is inaccurate or exaggerated, it may carry wider social consequences.

They have sought judicial intervention to determine whether the film’s content warrants regulatory scrutiny. During the preliminary hearing, the court observed that the issues raised require careful examination and that viewing the film would help assess the grievances in the proper context.

The matter has been posted for further hearing after the screening.

Political Reactions And Free Speech Debate

The case comes amid ongoing debates over cinematic freedom and the boundaries of creative expression when films claim to draw from real-life events. Courts have previously weighed artistic liberty against concerns related to public order and communal harmony.

While the filmmakers maintain the sequel is a legitimate creative exercise, the petitioners argue that the ‘true story’ label increases the responsibility to ensure factual accuracy.

Kerala BJP President Rajeev Chandrasekhar has repeatedly supported freedom of expression. However, the Congress and the ruling Left have taken a similar stand in opposing the film.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor criticised the makers, alleging that, like the original, the sequel promotes divisive narratives without a factual basis and risks spreading hatred. He earlier described the first instalment as a ‘hate-mongering film’ and disputed claims about large-scale religious conversions, saying the figures cited were exaggerated.

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