12 Jan – Kamal Haasan has now called for a more transparent and accountable certification system, amid the ongoing legal battle between "Jana Nayagan" and India's Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The actor-producer released a statement following the Madras High Court's stay order on the film's release, saying that cinema is not the labour of one but an effort made by many people, from writers, performers, behind-the-scene workers, and small businesses whose livelihoods depend on a fair and timely certification process. "When clarity is absent, creativity is constrained, economic activity is disrupted, and public trust is weakened. What is required now is a principled relook at the certification process, with defined timelines, transparent evaluation, and written, reasoned justification for every suggested cut or edit," he said. He also called for all industry players to unite and communicate constructively with government institutions to protect artistic freedom. "Such reform will safeguard creative freedom, uphold constitutional values, and strengthen India's democratic institutions by affirming trust in its artistes and its people," he added.
The issue with "Jana Nayagan" began in mid-December when the CBFC suggested cuts and assured producers the film would receive a U/A certificate. After changes were made, communications were delayed due to Christmas and New Year holidays, only for the board to send the film to its Revising Committee on grounds of "religious sentiments" and portrayal of defence forces. Following the producers' petition, the Madras High Court initially directed the CBFC to issue a U/A certificate. However, the CBFC filed a writ appeal recommending an A certificate due to extensive action sequences, prompting the court to issue a stay order on the film's certification. The next hearing is scheduled for 21 January, leaving Vijay's final film in legal limbo with no confirmed release date.