Kochi, Oct 17 (NationPress) On Friday, the Kerala High Court took the significant step of agreeing to screen the highly anticipated film ‘Haal’, featuring Shane Nigam, which is currently embroiled in a censorship debacle.

The film's challenges arose after the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) ordered the filmmakers to omit a scene depicting beef biryani and dialogue related to a ceremonial salute.

During the court proceedings, the legal representative for the film argued that the content is not offensive and requested that either the court or a representative appointed by it view the film.

Justice V.G. Arun responded affirmatively, stating he would personally watch the film and announce the date for the viewing on Tuesday.

Furthermore, he instructed that a member of the Censor Board and the standing counsel be present during the screening.

The filmmakers expressed their desire for additional attendees to participate in the viewing.

The censorship conflict originates from the Board’s objections to the line, “Dhwaja Pranama, the team is on guard,” and the depiction of a scene showing the consumption of beef biryani.

This directive from the CBFC has postponed the issuance of the censor certificate, consequently delaying the film's release.

In response to the order, the producers of the film approached the High Court, arguing that the suggested cuts undermine the narrative and violate artistic freedom.

‘Haal’, directed by debutant Veer, was initially scheduled for release on September 12 but was delayed due to the ongoing dispute.

This project, touted as one of Shane Nigam's most significant works to date, also stars Sakshi Vaidya as the female lead.

The film boasts an ensemble cast that includes Johnny Antony, Nath, Vineeth Beep Kumar, K. Madhupal, Sangeetha Madhavan Nair, Joy Mathew, Nishant Sagar, Niyas Becker, Riyas Narmakala, Suresh Krishna, Ravindran, Sohan Seenulal, Manoj KU, Unniraj, and Sreedhanya.

‘Haal’ is set for a simultaneous release in Malayalam, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada, and marks the Malayalam debut of Bollywood singer Ankit Tiwari.

The decision from the court is highly anticipated by both fans and industry observers, as it will not only influence the film's future but could also establish a precedent for future interactions between creative expression and regulatory bodies in Indian cinema.

Additionally, the Kerala High Court has permitted a petition from the Catholic Congress to intervene in an ongoing case concerning another film.

In an affidavit, the President of the Catholic Congress mentioned, “The film’s themes and narrative seem to endorse the notion of ‘Love Jihad’ as a legitimate practice and depict the Bishop of Thamarassery as supporting such controversial actions. I respectfully assert that if these scenes are permitted and the film is released in its present form, it could offend the religious sentiments of the Christian community and disrupt social harmony.”

The court is set to hear this plea on Tuesday.