JDS for ban on Sudeep's films days after the actor extended support to BJP

Days after Kannada actor Sudeep extended his support to Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai ahead of the state polls, Janata Dal (Secular) has written to the Election Commission, seeking a ban on the screening and telecast of his movies, shows and commercials.

It has claimed that they might influence voters in upcoming Assembly elections.

On Wednesday, Sudeep confirmed he would campaign for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).Addressing a joint press conference with Karnataka Chief Minister Basavraj Bommai on Wednesday, Sudeep said, "I had no need to come here, and I an not here for any platform or money. I have here only for a person. I have high regard for CM Mama (Bommai). That's why I am announcing my full support to Bommai sir". On whether he believes in the BJP's ideology, Sudeep said, "As a citizen, I totally respect certain decisions PM Modi has taken, but that's my perspective. But that has got nothing to do with me sitting here today."

CM Bommai said Sudeep doesn't belong to any political party. Reacting to superstar's statement on Wednesday, South star Prakash Raj said, "I am shocked and hurt by Kichha Sudeep's statement."

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, a lawyer based in Shivamogga, K P Sripal, wrote to the Election Commission, asking it to ban the screening and telecasting of movies, shows and commercials featuring the superstar Kannada superstar Kichcha Sudeep till the declaration of results of Assembly polls. The polling for the Karnataka Assembly is scheduled to be held on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13.

However, the Election Commission usually bans TV channels from showing films and videos of film stars who are candidates in the poll.

Notably in Tamil Nadu, this becomes an issue as Chief Ministers like MGR and Jayalalithaa attained stardom before foraying into films and the debate is airing their movies would can influence voters once the model code comes.