Key Facts
Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas of the Kerala High Court on Monday (June 15, 2026) recused himself from hearing a plea that challenged the issuance of a censor certificate for a feature film. The plea also sought the removal of the word 'Kerala' from the film's title.
Details of the Hearing
When the matter came up for hearing, the court orally observed that the plea had become infructuous. Justice Thomas further stated that he preferred to recuse himself from hearing the plea, citing that he had already taken a view in two other petitions that sought similar relief.
Background of the Film's Release
The film in question was released in February after a Division Bench of the Kerala High Court passed an interim order that lifted the stay on its release. The current plea was filed subsequently, challenging the censor certificate and the title.
Impact and What Readers Should Know
This recusal means the case will now be listed before another bench for hearing. The court's observation that the plea had become infructuous suggests that the issues raised may have been resolved or rendered moot by the film's release and the earlier interim order.
FAQ
- Why did Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas recuse himself? He recused himself because he had already taken a view in two other petitions seeking similar relief.
- What was the plea about? The plea challenged the issuance of a censor certificate for a feature film and sought removal of 'Kerala' from the film's title.
- What happened to the film's release? The film was released in February after a Division Bench lifted the stay on its release.