Kerala High Court Refuses to Halt Release of Film Inspired by Venjaramoodu Murder Case

The Kerala High Court, in Abdal Rahim H v Union of India and ors, has refused to stop the release of the Malayalam film Kaalam Paranja Katha, which is said to be inspired by the Venjaramoodu mass murder case. The Court dismissed the plea filed by the father of the accused.

The case was heard by Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, who examined concerns that the film’s release could impact the accused’s right to a fair trial. The petitioner argued that the movie might create a media narrative that could prejudice ongoing proceedings.

The Court, however, was not convinced that a cinematic portrayal would interfere with judicial processes. During earlier hearings, the judge had questioned how a film could influence a trial conducted by trained judicial officers who rely on evidence and legal principles.

It was also observed that cinema is a form of creative expression, and its content cannot be easily equated with the functioning of courts. The judge expressed doubt over claims that the film could affect witnesses or create bias in the trial.

The Venjaramoodu mass murder case relates to an incident from February 2025, where five members of a family were killed. The accused, Afan, is alleged to have murdered close relatives, including his grandmother, younger brother, uncle, aunt, and girlfriend. He also allegedly attempted to kill his mother.

The criminal trial in this matter is currently pending before a sessions court in Thiruvananthapuram. The petitioner had argued that releasing a film based on such events could lead to public prejudice against the accused before the trial concludes.

In response, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) informed the Court that the film had been carefully reviewed. It highlighted that the storyline differs from the actual prosecution case and that the film had received a U/A 16+ certificate after examination by a Revising Committee.

The Court accepted this position and found no sufficient ground to restrict the film’s release or promotion. With this, the plea seeking a restraint on the film was dismissed.