Kerala High Court: In a writ petition seeking direction of cessation against a Malayalam reality show Bigg Boss due to the violation of directives issued by Union Government and telecasting a physical assault on national television, the Division Bench of A. Muhamed Mustaque* and M.A. Abdul Hakhim , JJ. directed Union Government to address the violation immediately, and if necessary to desist from broadcasting of such show in the electronic media. And, also directed the petitioner to serve the copy of captured video of violation to Ministry also.
Background:In an instant case, an incident of physical assault was telecasted on a reality show named as ‘Big Boss’. The said incident involves two contestants, named Haseeb SK, also called ASI Rocky and Sijo John, following the incident ASI Rocky evicted from the show, notice was issued to ASI Rocky, for punching a fellow contestant. Apart from that, the Court issued notice to Malayalam cinema actor Mohanlal who is hosting the show, production company Endemol Shine India and telecasters Asianet and Disney Star. The incident of physical assault was in the contraventions of directives issued by Union Government.
Court’s Order:
The Court directed the Union Government to review the violation accordingly to the directives issued by them, and if necessary to instruct Mohanlal, Endemol Shine India, Asianet and Disney Star to desist from telecasting such show in the electronic media. Further, the Court directed the petitioner to forward a copy of the captured video of the telecast to the Union Government
[Adv. Adarsh S v. Union of India, 2024 SCC OnLine Ker 1853, Order dated 11-04-2024]
* Order by: Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque
