Kochi, Feb 19 (.) The Kerala High Court has issued notices in a petition challenging the certification granted to the Hindi film ‘The Kerala Story 2- Goes Beyond’.

The court admitted the plea and sought responses from the concerned parties, including the filmmakers and authorities involved in granting approval.
The writ petition questions the decision of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to clear the film for release. The petitioner contends that certain portions of the teaser and promotional content portray Kerala in a negative light by linking the state to allegations of forced religious conversions and extremist activities.
Filed by Kannur native Sreedev Namboodiri, the plea argues that specific dialogues and slogans used in the film’s promotional material could potentially provoke communal disharmony. The petitioner maintains that such content may adversely affect public order and social harmony within the state.
The petition further claims that the CBFC failed to properly assess the broader implications of the film’s narrative before granting certification.
It seeks a re-evaluation of the certification process, appropriate disclaimers, and reconsideration of the film’s title. Alternatively, the petitioner has requested an interim stay on the film’s release pending final adjudication.
The plea also refers to the controversy surrounding the earlier film ‘The Kerala Story’, which had faced legal scrutiny across multiple courts before its release. In that case, the Supreme Court of India had directed the inclusion of a disclaimer clarifying disputed claims made in the movie.
The High Court has posted the matter for further hearing later this month, with the outcome expected to determine whether the certification will stand or be subjected to further review.
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