The Madras High Court on Thursday dismissed a petition challenging the release of the Tamil movie Karuppu for its depiction of corruption in judiciary [Tamilvendan Vs Secretary].

A Bench of Justices GR Swaminathan and V Lakshminarayanan observed that the film’s portrayal of corruption in the legal system was a matter for introspection rather than censorship.

The existence of unethical practices among some lawyers and corruption among some judicial officers could not be denied merely because a film had portrayed it in an exaggerated manner, the Bench said.

“There are lawyers indulging in unethical practices. There are also some corrupt judicial officers, yes or no? That is what he should focus on, but he is showing it in a highly exaggerated way, that’s all,” the Court remarked during the hearing.

The judges added that such portrayals should prompt introspection.

“It’s a matter for introspection,” the Court observed.

During the hearing, the Court also underlined the importance of free speech and cautioned against granting the State powers to control expression.

“Anybody can say anything they want. This is a free country,” the Court said.

The Court further observed that the ignorance or impression of a film producer or director was not something the judiciary was required to correct.

“Sir, that is the impression of the producer and the director. What can we do? We are not here to clear their ignorance,” the Court remarked.

The hearing also saw the Court ask whether any further restriction could be imposed after the film had already received certification.

The Court ultimately dismissed the petition and said a detailed order would be passed later.

“We are dismissing the writ petition. We can pass a detailed order later, there is no time now. Dismissed,” the Court said.