Bigg Boss Kannada Shoot To Resume As Karnataka Govt Likely To Grant 10 Days Time To Rectify Violations?

The popular reality show Bigg Boss Kannada may soon resume after the Karnataka government decided to grant 10 days' time to Jollywood Vels Studio and Entertainment Limited, located in the Bidadi Industrial Area, to rectify environmental compliance issues. The studio currently houses the Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 set.

The local administration sealed the Jollywood Studios on Monday, following a report from the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) citing violations of pollution control norms. As a result, production at the Bigg Boss house was halted, and contestants were temporarily relocated.

In a letter addressed to the Bangalore South District Magistrate, Vels Studios acknowledged lapses in following certain KSPCB regulations. The management stated that the studio has all necessary licenses to operate but admitted to procedural oversights. "We regret the mistakes made and assure full compliance hereafter. We will submit all relevant documents to KSPCB and request 15 days to set things right. Meanwhile, we seek a temporary permit and request a review of our license after compliance," the letter said.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who came under fire from JD(S) leaders over the shutdown, clarified that the government had not ordered the closure. "I got to know about the issue from TV reports. I called the Deputy Commissioner, who informed me that the closure was based on a notice from the Pollution Control Board. Many people work there, and their livelihoods are at stake. I requested officials to give the studio an opportunity to rectify its mistakes," he said.

Responding to JD(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy's criticism, Shivakumar remarked, "Kumaraswamy's day doesn't end without mentioning my name. Why would I order such an action when I have only inaugurated the amusement park?"

As per a report in TV9 Kannada, the government is likely to give 10 days time to rectify the violations.

According to the KSPCB order dated October 6, 2025, M/s Vels Studio and Entertainment Limited (also known as Jollywood Studios and Adventures) was operating an amusement park without obtaining valid consent from the Board, despite being classified under the Green Category.

The inspection report stated that wastewater from various areas was being discharged untreated outside the premises, polluting the surrounding environment. Although the studio has a 250 KLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), officials found it non-functional. "No inflow of sewage to the STP was observed; all units were empty, and untreated wastewater was being released outside the premises," the report said.

The inspection also revealed poor housekeeping near the STP, lack of a process flowchart, and the operation of diesel generator sets (625 KVA and 500 KVA) without proper environmental safeguards. Additionally, solid waste such as disposable plates, cups, and plastic materials were found dumped unscientifically near the STP area.

Following these findings, the KSPCB issued closure orders under Section 33(A) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and related rules.

With the government now showing willingness to allow the studio time to comply, the resumption of Bigg Boss Kannada 12 appears imminent-pending final approval from the District Magistrate and KSPCB.