'The Kerala Story 2's illegal broadcast barred
What's the story
The Madras High Court has issued an interim order barring internet service providers and cable TV operators from illegally streaming or airing the film The Kerala Story 2. The order was passed on Monday in response to two applications filed by the movie's producer, Sunshine Pictures Limited. They had expressed concerns over potential copyright infringement ahead of the film's release.
Legal proceedings
Justice Ramamoorthy's observations
Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy observed that unless unlawful broadcasting is prevented immediately, irreversible injury may occur in such cases. The court said, "In matters of this nature, it is likely that irreversible injury will occur unless unlawful broadcast is prevented at the threshold." The order also mentioned the need for the plaintiff to indemnify any legitimate business interest of one or more respondents affected by this expansive relief.
Injunction details
Ad interim injunction granted until this date
The court has granted an ad interim injunction until March 23, 2026. The order stated, "Subject to this condition, orders of ad interim injunction as prayed for are granted in these two applications until 23.03.2026." It also instructed the respondents to issue notice returnable on March 23, 2026, and allowed private notice as well. The applicant is required to comply with Order XXXIX Rule 3 of CPC (Code of Civil Procedure).
Film's journey
Everything to know about 'The Kerala Story 2'
The film was directed by Kamakhya Narayan Singh and backed by Vipul Amrutlal Shah. It tells the story of three young women who are trapped in what the film calls "fake marriages" and undergo forced religious conversions. The movie faced legal hurdles before its release, with the Kerala High Court staying its release. However, a division bench later lifted this stay, allowing it to be released as scheduled.