CHENNAI: BJP state vice-president Kushboo Sundar on Sunday rejected allegations that the Centre had stalled the release of TVK chief actor Vijay's Jana Nayagan, saying the controversy was being deliberately politicised to divert attention from procedural lapses by the film's producers.
Speaking to reporters at the Chennai airport, Kushboo said the central government had no role in delaying the film. "If the Centre were really in the business of banning films, it would have acted first against Parasakthi, which is being released by the Red Giant Movies. Why would it selectively target Jana Nayagan?" she asked.
She said announcing a release date without securing all statutory clearances was a basic violation of film certification norms. "I am both an actor and a producer. You cannot declare a release date unless all certificates are in hand. If you skip that process, you cannot later blame the CBFC or the government," she said, adding that continuous public holidays could not be used as an excuse to pressure officials. "Do you expect certification officers to work around the clock for you?"
Kushboo said even Vijay's fans should recognise the difference between procedural delays and political interference. "I am a Vijay fan myself. It is disappointing when a film is delayed, but rules apply to every film, not just Jana Nayagan," she said.
Targeting Chief Minister MK Stalin, the BJP leader said, "Before making sweeping allegations against the Centre, the Chief Minister should think. Parasakthi is being released by his own son's company. If the Centre wanted to ban films, would that not be the first target?"
Kushboo also accused the DMK of misleading voters through election-time announcements. "Teachers, cleanliness workers and women had to protest for their dues. Now, suddenly, cash doles are being announced because elections are nearing," she said.
On the Karur stampede case, she said Vijay himself had sought a CBI probe. "The investigation has begun. If he has nothing to hide, he should face it," she added.
Asked about her own electoral plans, Kushboo said, "The party's victory matters. Who contests is the party's decision."