The delay in certification for Jana Nayagan, actor-politician Vijay’s much-anticipated swan song, has triggered a sharp political storm in Tamil Nadu, with rival parties trading accusations of conspiracy, misuse of power and political vendetta.
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has yet to issue a certificate for the film, which was slated for a worldwide Pongal release on Jan 9, reported The Indian Express. The producers have moved the Madras High Court, which is scheduled to hear the matter, even as the delay fuels speculation about political motives behind the hold-up.
Supporters of Vijay allege that the delay is aimed at weakening his fledgling political outfit, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), which has begun to make inroads ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
A senior TVK leader, speaking anonymously, drew parallels with former chief minister M.G. Ramachandran’s struggles in the 1970s, claiming that “fear of Vijay’s growing mass appeal” lay behind the current impasse.
Political analyst Ramu Manivannan suggested the controversy could suit the Bhartiya Janata Party’s broader electoral calculations. According to him, pressure on Vijay may be part of an attempt to unsettle the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) alliance and explore tactical understandings elsewhere.
The DMK, however, rejected any role in the matter, pointing out that the CBFC functions under the BJP-led Union government. State minister K.N. Nehru asked how the DMK could be blamed for a decision taken by a central body.
The Congress, a DMK ally in Tamil Nadu, has openly criticised the Central government, reported the Hindustan Times. Congress MP S. Jothimani described the certification delay as an assault on freedom of expression, alleging that central agencies – now including the censor board – were being used as political tools. She argued that in a digital age, censorship should ultimately be left to the judgment of audiences.
The BJP hit back strongly. The party’s leader, Tamilisai Soundararajan, said it was misleading to accuse the Centre, insisting that courts had already clarified that the government had no role in certification decisions. BJP spokespersons also accused the Congress of hypocrisy, citing its record during the Emergency.
The row has gained further traction because it coincides with a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into the Karur stampede that occurred during a TVK public meeting last year.
Vijay’s supporters see a pattern in the timing, while TVK leaders insist the party will not alter its ideological stance or align with the BJP.
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28 Dec 2025 18:51
