India, June 13 -- The Supreme Court on Friday issued notice to the Karnataka government on a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the "extra-judicial ban" on the screening of Tamil film Thug Life, starring Kamal Haasan and directed by Mani Ratnam.

The petition, filed by Mahesh Reddy, contended that the film, despite an approval by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), is being prevented from releasing in Karnataka due to threats and intimidation from extremist elements.

A bench of justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Manmohan posted the matter for hearing on June 17.

"Considering the urgency shown and the issue brought before this court, we issue notice to the respondent," the bench said in its order.

Appearing for the...