‘Jana Nayakan’ Release Controversy: Thalapathy Vijay Alleges Political Targeting; CBFC Files Caveat in Supreme Court

The release of Thalapathy Vijay’s latest film Jana Nayakan continues to be mired in controversy. Speaking for the first time amid the ongoing dispute, the superstar told a TV channel that the delays and scrutiny around his film are politically motivated. Meanwhile, reports emerged that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has filed a caveat in the Supreme Court, potentially delaying the film’s release further.

Actor-Turned-Politician Speaks Out
Vijay, who is now actively involved with his political party, Tamilga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), said in an off-camera interview with NDTV that he feels sorry for the filmmakers as their project remains unreleased. He acknowledged that his political career had always made him anticipate such targeting and credited his father, S.A. Chandrasekhar, for shaping his understanding of political cinema.

“I feel bad for the makers of Jana Nayakan,” Vijay said. “I had a sense that my films would face extra scrutiny due to politics. Since the COVID pandemic, I’ve been thinking seriously about my future and my political journey.”

CBFC Files Caveat in Supreme Court
According to Bar & Bench, the CBFC has submitted a caveat in the Supreme Court concerning the Jana Nayakan case. The caveat requests that no order be passed in the matter until the CBFC has been heard. This move came ahead of fears that the producers, KVN Productions, might approach the Supreme Court over a Madras High Court Division Bench ruling that stayed the issuance of the UA certificate.

Madras High Court Division Bench Ruling
On January 27, the Division Bench of the Madras High Court overturned a prior Single Bench order that had directed the film to be certified. The court allowed the CBFC’s appeal and instructed that the matter be reheard by the Single Bench, giving the board an opportunity to submit its response before any certification decision.

Timeline of Certification Controversy

• December 2025: Film submitted to CBFC for certification.
• CBFC suggested 16 cuts and changes.
• December 24, 2025: Revised version submitted complying with CBFC recommendations.
• December 29, 2025: CBFC Chennai regional office informed the producers that the revised version would be certified.
• January 5, 2026: CBFC Chairperson referred the film to a Revising Committee citing a complaint regarding scenes hurting religious sentiments and misrepresenting armed forces.
• January 9, 2026: Single Bench of Madras High Court ordered certification after cuts.
• Same day: Division Bench issued interim stay citing insufficient time for CBFC response.
• January 20, 2026: Hearing before Division Bench completed.
• January 27, 2026: Division Bench overturned Single Bench order and directed a fresh hearing.

Vijay’s Admiration for Shahrukh Khan
In a separate off-camera discussion, Vijay mentioned Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan as his role model, praising his eloquence and command over speech. When asked if he aspired to be a “kingmaker” or the “king” in politics, Vijay confidently replied, “Sir, I will win. I am contesting elections to win.”