Madras High Court Affirms Right to Dissent—but Not to Disrupt: Lessons from the ‘Kingdom’ Movie Screening Case
The recent controversy surrounding the screening of Vijay Deverakonda’s film ‘Kingdom’ has reignited debates on the boundaries of free speech and protest in Tamil Nadu. Many theatre owners and moviegoers were taken aback when members of the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) attempted to disrupt movie shows due to their objections about the film's portrayal of Tamil identity. As a seasoned Divorce lawyer in Tambaram and a trusted Family law expert, here at Mujib Law Associates, we regularly counsel clients on their rights—and responsibilities—when expressing dissent or facing disruption of their lawful activities.
The Madras High Court delivered a clear message: the right to peaceful protest is foundational, but it does not extend to preventing others from enjoying legally certified entertainment. Judges observed that the NTK workers had every right to voice their opposition but drew a sharp line at forcibly entering theatres and halting screenings. This critical distinction, repeatedly emphasized by the judiciary, is at the heart of Indian constitutional freedoms—where one’s liberty stops short of infringing upon another’s.
What makes cases like this especially relevant for property dispute advocates in Tambaram and beyond is the Court’s insistence that all parties must respect the law. When certified movies are approved by the CBFC, no group—even if well-intentioned—can take the law into their own hands and disrupt lawful business operations or the rights of the public. Family law specialists would recognize the clear parallel: you can voice grievances, but justice cannot be achieved by overriding due process.
The Court also addressed the police’s role. They instructed police authorities to offer protection so that screenings take place without intimidation or violence. This proactive stance is crucial not only for entertainment halls but for any individual or business facing coercive tactics. Whether you’re seeking a Child custody lawyer, Divorce lawyer, or looking to safeguard your commercial interests, the underlying legal principle is the same—your lawful rights deserve protection from unlawful interference.
Protest, dissent, and critique are powerful democratic tools. But the Court reminded everyone that freedom of speech and assembly under Article 19(1) is not absolute. These rights carry reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2), especially to protect public order and the interests of others. For family lawyers and civil rights advocates, this case offers a living example of how healthy expression cannot cross over into enforced censorship or vigilante action.
Further, the incident brought out the need for responsible leadership within political organizations. The judiciary firmly stated that protests must be reasonable, respectful, and mindful of public convenience. As a property dispute advocate in Tambaram, we’ve seen first-hand how disputes escalate when fundamental duties towards fellow citizens are ignored. Balanced, law-abiding advocacy is always the key to lasting solutions.
For individuals and groups wanting to protest films, opinions, or public actions in India, there are robust legal processes to follow. The High Court’s stance in the ‘Kingdom’ case is a reminder that while dissent is vital for democracy, it can never justify denying others their freedoms. At Mujib Law Associates, our commitment is to guide clients with compassionate, practical advice—whether you need a divorce lawyer, family law expert, or help with protecting your rights to property and free expression.
In conclusion, the Madras High Court’s decision affirms that in a vibrant democracy, everyone has the right to protest—but not at the cost of another’s lawful enjoyment or public peace. If you’re facing any legal challenge where your rights are threatened, reach out to a knowledgeable advocate. Our team at Mujib Law Associates stands by your side, ensuring your voice is heard, your interests are protected, and justice prevails.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for general awareness only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create a lawyer-client relationship. For case-specific legal queries, please consult a qualified lawyer. Mujib Law Associates is not responsible for actions taken solely on the basis of this information.