'Not an accident': Kamal Haasan calls Jana Nayagan leak 'a systemic failure'

What’s the matter?

Touted as Vijay’s final film before his full-time shift to politics, Jana Nayagan was leaked on pirated websites even as it awaits certification.

Clips from several key scenes had already surfaced on social media ahead of the full leak, raising concerns among fans and the film’s team.

Angered by the development, Vijay’s fans have urged the makers to take strict legal action against those responsible.

Kamal Haasan reacts

Calling the leak a “systematic failure,” Haasan said piracy is “beyond politics” and an attack on both the art and the artist.

“Had due process been timely, we would not be here. Inordinate delays in certification created fertile ground for piracy. When legal access is stalled, illegitimate channels take over,” he said.

He added that piracy endangers the work of hundreds of artists and technicians, as well as the investments of producers, exhibitors, and theatre owners.

“Who protects the creator when the system fails? We need accountability, swift certification, strict enforcement, and real-time takedowns,” Haasan said, urging audiences to support the film by watching it legally in theatres.

Why is the film stuck in certification?

The film, initially slated for a January 9 release, ran into trouble after the Central Board of Film Certification raised objections over certain scenes that could potentially hurt public sentiments.

The makers reportedly made around 27 cuts and resubmitted the film, but clearance was still not granted.

They then approached the Madras High Court, which initially allowed certification.

However, the decision was later overturned by a division bench.

The matter eventually reached the Supreme Court of India, which declined to intervene, prolonging the deadlock.

Following weeks of legal tussle, the makers withdrew the case and submitted the film to a review committee, which is yet to grant certification.