The Karnataka State Women's Commission has formally sought clarification from the Central Board of Film Certification regarding the teaser of actor Yash's forthcoming Kannada film Toxic, following multiple complaints concerning its content. The move stems from allegations that the visuals promote obscenity and explicit imagery, potentially harming the social well-being of women and children while disrespecting Kannada cultural values.

CBFC sources have categorically stated that the teaser, released exclusively on YouTube, does not require certification under the board's regulations. Certification remains mandatory solely for theatrical films and trailers intended for cinema exhibition. Promotional material disseminated solely through digital platforms falls outside the CBFC's regulatory scope, and no application for certification of any Toxic-related content has been received to date.

The controversy intensified after the Aam Aadmi Party's Women's Wing lodged a formal complaint with the Karnataka State Women's Commission. The party described the teaser as containing objectionable and explicit visuals, asserting that such content undermines societal morality and cultural sensitivities. It urged the commission to recommend immediate withdrawal or cancellation of the teaser by the state government to protect vulnerable groups and uphold social responsibility.

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Directed by Geetu Mohandas, Toxic features an ensemble cast including Nayanthara, Rukmini Vasanth, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, and Tara Sutaria. Positioned as one of the most anticipated releases of 2026, the film is scheduled for theatrical release on March 19, where it will face a major box-office clash with Dhurandhar Part 2.

The ongoing dispute highlights the jurisdictional boundaries between traditional film certification and digital promotional content, as well as broader debates over cultural representation and responsibility in regional cinema. With no CBFC involvement in the YouTube teaser, attention now shifts to potential responses from the women's commission and state authorities regarding the complaints.

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