Supreme Court Declines Urgent Listing of PIL Against Release Of Ajay Devgan's Movie 'Thank God'

The Supreme Court today declined urgent listing of a writ petition against the release of Ajay Devgan's movie 'Thank God'.

The case was mentioned for urgent listing by Advocate ML Sharma before a Bench comprising Chief Justice UU Lalit and Justice Bela M. Trivedi. The petition was tentatively listed for 21 October, 2022 but was not listed in the final causelist published by the Court.

Upon mentioning for listing, the Court found no urgency despite the fact that the movie is scheduled to be released on 25 October, 2022. The matter will now be listed on 31 October, 2022.

The writ petition has been filed against the movie stating that the movie spreads wrong, insulting and derogatory message against God Chitragupta. 

The petition filed by a Trust named Shri Chitragupta Welfare Trust, seeks removal of the movie's trailer and posters from Youtube and other electronic platforms. The plea claims that the movie starring Ajay Devgan violates Articles 14 and 15 of the Constitution and Section 5B of the Cinematograph Act.

God Chitragupta is worshipped by many, especially those belonging to the Kayastha Community.  

Section 5B of the Cinematograph Act, 1952 reads as follows: 

"5B. Principles for guidance in certifying films.—

(1) A film shall not be certified for public exhibition if, in the opinion of the authority competent to grant the certificate, the film or any part of it is against the interests of the sovereignty and integrity of India the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality, or involves defamation or contempt of court or is likely to incite the commission of any offence.

(2) Subject to the provisions contained in sub-section (1), the Central Government may issue such directions as it may think fit setting out the principles which shall guide the authority competent to grant certificates under this Act in sanctioning films for public exhibition."

Case Title- Shri Chitragupta Welfare Trust v. Central Board of Film Certification & others (Writ Petition (Civil) No. 877 of 2022)