4 min readNew DelhiUpdated: Mar 3, 2026 11:32 AM ISTMadras High Court has restrained internet service providers and cable TV operators from unlawfully broadcasting the movie.The Madras High Court has restrained internet service providers and cable TV operators from unlawfully broadcasting the movie- The Kerala Story 2.Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy granted ad interim injunction on the two applications filed by Sunshine Pictures Limited, producer of the Kerala Story 2 movie, apprehending infringement of the plaintiff’s copyright in the film. Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy granted ad interim injunction.The court noted that as evidence of its ownership of the copyright, the producer-plaintiff filed the CBFC certificate describing it as the producer.It observed that irreversible injury may occur in such cases unless unlawful broadcast is prevented at the threshold. However, the court also noted that the legitimate business interest of the respondents may also be affected.“In matters of this nature, it is likely that irreversible injury will occur unless unlawful broadcast is prevented at the threshold. At the same time, it is possible that the legitimate business interest of one or more respondents may be affected, in view of the expansive nature of the relief claimed. Therefore, it is necessary that the plaintiff shall indemnify in respect thereof,” the court remarked.Subject to this condition, the court granted ad interim injunction as prayed for until February 23, 2026.“Subject to this condition, orders of ad interim injunction as prayed for are granted in these two applications until 23.03.2026. Issue notice to the respondents returnable on 23.03.2026. Private notice is also permitted. The applicant shall comply with Order XXXIX Rule 3 of CPC,” the order read.Story continues below this adAlso Read | Relief for Kerala Story 2: High Court’s Division Bench lifts stay on releaseDivision bench rulingOn February 27, a division bench of the Kerala High Court had lifted the interim stay on the release of Kerala Story 2 movie.The bench of Justices S A Dharmadhikari and P V Balakrishnan stayed the single bench order, after producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah moved an appeal.The single bench of Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas had stayed the release of the film for two weeks and had directed the CBFC to review the screening certificate it had issued to the movie, which is a sequel to the Kerala Story.On February 26, hours after the single bench verdict, the film producers appealed to the Division Bench, which heard the matter on Thursday night.During the hearing, the Division Bench raised doubts on whether a decision on the matter could be made based on the movie’s teaser released last week.Also Read | HC stays Kerala Story 2 release: Court says ‘non-application of mind by CBFC while certifying the movie’Single bench orderA bench of Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas had stayed the release of the movie acting upon a petition moved by one Sreedev Namboodiri of Kannur, who had sought that the screening certificate issued to the film be quashed.The petitioner argued that the film is about women from various states who were allegedly being lured into relationships and coerced into religious conversion, but the title says ‘Kerala Story 2’, thereby allegedly linking the theme of forced religious conversion to the state of Kerala.While hearing the petition, the High Court had remarked that the people of Kerala live in harmony.Observing that there was a lack of application of mind by the CBFC while granting certification to the film, the court directed the body to consider the revision petitions filed before it by the petitioner within two weeks.The petitioner alleged that the film, slated for release this week, would create a law and order situation.Ashish Shaji is a Senior Sub-Editor at The Indian Express, where he specializes in legal journalism. Combining a formal education in law with years of editorial experience, Ashish provides authoritative coverage and nuanced analysis of court developments and landmark judicial decisions for a national audience. Expertise Legal Core Competency: Ashish is a law graduate (BA LLB) from IME Law College, CCSU. This academic foundation allows him to move beyond surface-level reporting, offering readers a deep-dive into the technicalities of statutes, case law, and legal precedents. Specialized Legal Reporting: His work at The Indian Express focuses on translating the often-dense proceedings of India's top courts into clear, actionable news. His expertise includes: Judicial Analysis: Breaking down complex orders from the Supreme Court and various High Courts. Legal Developments: Monitoring legislative changes and their practical implications for the public and the legal fraternity. Industry Experience: With over 5 years in the field, Ashish has contributed to several niche legal and professional platforms, honing his ability to communicate complex information. His previous experience includes: Lawsikho: Gaining insights into legal education and practical law. Verdictum: Focusing on high-quality legal news and court updates. Enterslice: Working at the intersection of legal, financial, and advisory services. ... Read More © IE Online Media Services Pvt LtdTags:Madras High Court