By Khabar Rojana 
The Madras High Court on January 27, 2026, set aside a single judge’s order directing the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue a U/A 16+ certificate for actor Vijay’s highly anticipated film, Jana Nayagan. The decision was taken by a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and Justice G. Arul Murugan, which remanded the matter back to the single judge for a fresh hearing.
The controversy arose after the single judge, in an order dated January 9, 2026, directed the CBFC to certify the film for release. However, the CBFC challenged the order, stating that it had not been given an adequate opportunity to respond to the writ petition filed by KVN Productions LLP, the production house behind the film.
The Division Bench held that the single judge’s decision was premature, as the CBFC should have been allowed to file a counter-affidavit before any orders were issued. The bench emphasized the need for proper procedure to ensure fairness and transparency in judicial oversight of film certification matters.
The case highlights the legal scrutiny and challenges surrounding film certification in India, especially for high-profile releases involving major stars. The Division Bench’s order ensures that due process is followed before final certification is granted, and underscores the importance of the CBFC’s role in evaluating content according to regulatory guidelines.
The film industry and fans of actor Vijay are closely watching the proceedings, as the final certification of Jana Nayagan will determine its release timeline. The renewed hearing at the single judge level will examine the CBFC’s objections and the production house’s claims to ensure a balanced resolution.
Experts note that this development is part of a broader trend where judicial review and film certification often intersect, particularly for films that are highly anticipated or likely to attract public attention. Legal clarity in such matters is crucial to maintain the integrity of the certification process while respecting artistic expression and public sensibilities.
The Madras High Court’s decision reinforces the importance of procedural fairness in legal disputes related to film censorship and provides a roadmap for the resolution of similar cases in the future.
Shalu Shalu