Violence in movies will have impact on society: High Court

KOCHI: The High Court has said that the glorification of violence in films has an impact on society. However, the Court also asked how much government intervention can be expected since it is a matter of freedom of expression. The High Court's remarks came when the State Women's Commission opined that there should be provisions in the government's new film policy to avoid violence in films. A division bench comprising Justice A.K. Jayasankaran Nambiar and Justice C.S. Sudha was considering a public interest litigation related to the Hema Committee report.

The Women's Commission said that violence has increased among teenagers and even murders are happening. It was pointed out that the glorification of violence by even the lead characters in the film is one of the reasons for this. However, the court said that there can be arguments that what is shown in the film is a reflection of what is happening in the society.

The lawyers demanded that gender bullying in the workplace be controlled. The Advocate General assured that the policy-making committee will examine what can be done. The petition will be considered again on April 4.

Complaint against SIT can be filed

The division bench clarified that if anyone has a complaint that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is harassing them in connection with the cases registered based on the statements in the Hema report, they can approach the High Court. Producer Sajimon Parayil alleged that the police are harassing many people by constantly issuing notices asking them to give statements before the magistrate. 'The Supreme Court has told the complainants to approach the High Court. No one has come so far. If they are not interested in proceeding with the case, those who have received the notice are free to inform the magistrate about it. It may be because they are keeping silent that they are continuously receiving notices,' the court mentioned.