Why Did the Karnataka Pollution Control Board Order the Closure of Big Boss Kannada Studio?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- KSPCB has issued a closure notice for the Big Boss Kannada studio.
- The studio operated without required legal permissions.
- State Minister Eshwar Khandre emphasized that no one is above the law.
- Legal action may follow against the studio for non-compliance.
- The producers can appeal the closure in court.
Bengaluru, Oct 7 (NationPress) The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has taken decisive action by issuing immediate closure orders for the Big Boss Kannada studio due to serious infractions involving operating without the necessary permissions and failing to comply with legal regulations.
The current season of the reality show 'Big Boss', hosted by renowned Kannada actor Kichcha Sudeep, has just commenced.
In response to this situation, State Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre remarked in Bengaluru, "Despite receiving notices regarding violations, the studio has continued its operations. No one is above the law, and appropriate legal actions will follow. "
He further explained, "Vels Studios and Entertainment was formally notified by regional officials in Ramanagar back in March 2024. They have not obtained the required permissions under the Water and Air Acts. My discussions with officials indicate a lack of effort to secure the necessary applications for compliance," he emphasized.
Minister Khandre pointed out that despite numerous inspections and the issuance of notices, the studio's operations persist, which directly contravenes Supreme Court orders.
He added, "This behavior also violates the National Green Tribunal (NGT) regulations. Therefore, the closure notice has been issued due to their disregard for compliance with existing laws."
When questioned about the potential shutdown of the reality show 'Big Boss', Khandre affirmed, "We will act according to legal provisions. Respect for the law is paramount, and it is our duty to enforce it. There is no need for speculation on this matter."
"There is always the option for the producers to seek legal recourse; they can file an appeal in court," he added.
Previously, a notice was served to terminate the power supply, with allegations suggesting that the power source was illegal.
The reality show is being conducted at the expansive 35-acre Jollywood Studios and Adventures, operated by Vels Studios and Entertainment Private Limited, situated in Bidadi, within the Ramanagara district just outside Bengaluru.
The KSPCB directed that the Managing Director of Bescom must instruct the relevant executive engineers to disconnect the power supply until further notice.
The order reiterated that the closure directive was issued under Sections 31 (A) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, in conjunction with Rule 20 (A) of the Karnataka Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Rules, 1983.
The KSPCB's orders stem from Vels Studios and Entertainment Private Limited's failure to comply with the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act.