CHENNAI: A day after TVK chief Vijay’s yet to be released movie ‘Jananayagan’ surfaced online, the party blamed Union minister of state L Murugan and Tamil Nadu’s deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin for the leak. TVK general secretary Aadhav Arjuna alleged that Murugan, as Union I&B minister overseeing CBFC, was responsible for the leak and that he “acted in coordination with” Udhayanidhi. The movie, directed by H Vinoth, is being touted as the last film of Vijay, who is contesting the assembly polls. The film was caught in a long-drawn battle with the CBFC and was awaiting clearance for release. Speaking to reporters, Aadhav said the leak was intended to damage Vijay and inflict losses on him and the producer. “They are trying to figure out extent to which they can exert pressure on Vijay,” he said, adding that such tactics would not work as “the people of Tamil Nadu will stand with him”. Vijay himself chose not to react to the development. DMK and BJP, too, did not respond to the charges. However, the production house has filed a complaint seeking forensic investigations and action against those behind the unauthorised circulation. In a statement, KVN Productions said, “Civil and criminal proceedings will be pursued against every offender without exception.” The producers also cautioned the public against sharing the leaked content, and warned of legal action against violators. Meanwhile, members of the film fraternity, including actors Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Chiranjeevi and Suriya, condemned the leak of the movie. Calling the incident shocking and painful, Rajinikanth said in a post on X: “Film bodies must raise their voice against this. Govt should identify those responsible and impose strict punishment. Such crimes should not continue hereafter.” Kamal Haasan said the leak was the result of a “systemic failure”. Producers Kalaipuli S. Dhanu, KR and theatre owners’ leader Tirupur Subramanian also condemned the piracy attempt.
