The release plans for Vijay-starrer Jana Nayagan have hit a legal roadblock, with the Madras High Court reserving its orders on the film’s censor certification, making a January 9 theatrical release increasingly unlikely.
Justice P.T. Asha on January 7, 2026, reserved judgment on a petition filed by KVN Productions LLP, which challenged the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for delaying the issuance of a certificate despite the examining committee clearing the film with a U/A 16+ rating after recommending multiple cuts.
According to submissions made in court, one member of the examining committee raised objections after the screening, prompting the CBFC Chairman to refer the film to a revising committee. The Additional Solicitor General defended the move, stating that the chairman was acting within his powers under the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024.
However, the production house strongly opposed the referral, arguing that the objections of a single committee member should not stall the film’s release. Senior counsel for the producers stated that 27 cuts and modifications suggested by the committee had already been implemented.
Highlighting the stakes involved, the counsel said the film had a reported investment of ₹500 crore and that the makers had already announced January 9 as the release date after applying under the Tatkal certification process.
With the court’s order expected on the same day as the proposed release, the fate of Jana Nayagan now hinges on the final ruling.
