"He should be more responsible": AIADMK leader Kovai Sathyan on Kamal Haasan's remark

Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], June 4 (ANI): AIADMK spokesperson Kovai Sathyan on Wednesday expressed disappointment at actor Kamal Haasan's remarks on the Kannada language, saying that "derogatory remarks" by someone regarded as being in the highest strata of society are "not welcome."
Speaking to ANI, Kovai Sathyan said, "He has larger aspirations in politics, which miserably failed and finally took asylum under DMK as a Rajya Sabha member. He wants to place himself as a politician and make derogatory remarks or instigate people, but somebody who is regarded in the highest strata of society is not welcome. It is against the law... Even C. Rajagopalachari submitted a written apology. He is not bigger than him. He is an actor. An actor turned politician. He should be more responsible..."
Meanwhile, the ongoing controversy surrounding Kamal Haasan's movie 'Thug Life' has taken a new turn, with the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) reaffirming its demand for an apology from the actor.
The dispute revolves around Haasan's controversial remarks at the audio launch of the film in Chennai, where he suggested that "Kannada is born out of Tamil."
After a meeting with film industry representatives, KFCC President M Narasimhalu emphasised the chamber's firm stance on the issue, stating that the actor's comments have angered both the government and pro-Kannada organisations.
The KFCC President insisted that Haasan must apologise to the people of Karnataka for his remarks before any further discussion could take place.
"He has spoken about our language, and the government, pro-Kannada organisations, everyone is angry. He should apologise. Let him come and discuss," Narasimhalu said.
Narasimhalu further added that the KFCC was not prepared to make any decisions or offer mediation without an apology from Haasan. He said that the KFCC's stance is clear: no mediation or resolution can take place without Haasan acknowledging the hurt caused by his statement.
"We want an apology from Kamal Haasan. There are rules, and this concerns four states," Narasimhalu said.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka High Court has adjourned the hearing of the petition concerning the release of 'Thug Life' to June 10, 2025.
The court had previously intervened after the KFCC decided to block the film's release in the state due to the controversy surrounding Haasan's comments.
The film's producers filed the petition seeking a court order to allow the release of 'Thug Life' as scheduled on June 5, 2025.
The court noted that Haasan's letter to the KFCC in response to their demand did not include the word "apology," further complicating the matter. The court has provided time for dialogue between the petitioners and the KFCC, allowing the producers to engage with the film body in an attempt to resolve the issue. (ANI)