Chennai, January 27, 2026: A Division Bench of the Madras High Court has set aside the January 9, 2026, single judge order that had directed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to grant U/A 16+ certification for actor Vijay’s highly anticipated film, Jana Nayagan.
The bench, comprising Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava and Justice G. Arul Murugan, observed that the single judge should not have issued directions without giving the CBFC an opportunity to file a counter affidavit in response to the writ petition filed by the production house KVN Productions LLP.
Division Bench Decision
The court remanded the matter back to the single judge for a fresh hearing, ensuring that all procedural norms are followed and that the CBFC is heard properly before any certification order is passed.
The CBFC had earlier opposed the film’s U/A 16+ certification, citing content concerns that warranted careful scrutiny. The production house had approached the Madras High Court seeking to bypass delays in certification.
Actor Vijay’s Film in Spotlight
Jana Nayagan, starring Tamil superstar Vijay, has been one of the most awaited films of 2026, generating buzz for its storyline and the actor’s performance. The censor row has attracted significant media attention, with fans eagerly awaiting clarity on the film’s release date.
The film’s makers have maintained that the movie is family-friendly with suitable scenes for U/A audiences, while the CBFC has emphasized adherence to content guidelines before issuing any certification.
What Happens Next
The single judge will now rehear the writ petition, taking into account the CBFC’s submissions and ensuring a balanced decision. Until then, the final certification for Jana Nayagan remains pending, potentially affecting its scheduled release plans.
The Madras High Court’s latest ruling underscores the importance of procedural fairness in censorship matters and sets a precedent for how disputes between filmmakers and the CBFC are addressed.
