Overview
- Thirteen of the 19 films initially denied censor exemption were later cleared to screen, while six were withdrawn at the end of the festival.
- The six cancelled titles were Yes, Eagles of the Republic, Clash, Flames, A Poet: Unconcealed Poetry, and All That's Left of You.
- The MEA and I&B Ministry issued notices warning of diplomatic repercussions and possible action under the Cinematograph Act if the screenings proceeded.
- KSCA chair Resul Pookutty said the academy made the call to step back despite the Kerala government earlier directing that all 19 films be shown, and he noted that three of the six had already been screened before the pullback.
- Pinarayi Vijayan used the closing ceremony to condemn the Centre’s handling of exemptions and visas as an attack on free expression, while organisers also pointed to bureaucratic delays and new visa rules complicating clearances.