Kerala High Court to Watch ‘Janaki v. State of Kerala’ Amid CBFC Objection Over Rape Survivor’s Name

The Kerala High Court decided to watch the Malayalam film Janaki v. State of Kerala, starring Union Minister Suresh Gopi, before ruling on the CBFC objection.

The CBFC’s Revising Committee denied clearance, citing the use of the name ‘Janaki’ for a rape survivor, claiming it violates Guidelines 2(xii) and 6 under Section 5B(2) of the Cinematograph Act, 1952.

The Court questioned why a victim's character can’t be named Janaki, noting that the victim’s name reflects her pursuit of justice. 

The filmmakers filed two petitions, one over the delay and one against the rejection. A special screening has been scheduled at 10 AM on July 5, 2025, and the case will be closed on July 9.