Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday urged officials to give the producers of Bigg Boss Kannada an opportunity to rectify environmental violations after the Jollywood (Vels) Studio in the Bidadi Industrial Area was sealed by the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB).
Studio Sealed Over Environmental Violations
The KSPCB sealed Vels Studio and Entertainment Limited, where Bigg Boss Kannada is being filmed, for non-compliance with the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act.
Officials alleged that the studio had been operating without mandatory environmental clearances and had violated pollution norms related to air and water quality. The Bengaluru South district authorities executed the closure order late Tuesday night.
Shivakumar Calls for Balanced Approach
Sharing a post on X (formerly Twitter), Shivakumar said,
“The Jollywood Studio, where Bigg Boss is being held, has been sealed for not complying with the Pollution Control Board rules. However, private individuals have invested here, and employment is taking place, which is important. Therefore, I have instructed officials to give it a chance to rectify the mistakes and proceed.”
Speaking to reporters, he added that he had discussed the issue with the District Commissioner and Superintendent of Police, emphasizing that while laws must be followed, private investments and job opportunities should also be considered.
“If there is a mistake on the makers’ side, they have to rectify it. Bigg Boss or any entertainment show is important for the industry. If mistakes happen, they should be corrected,” he said.
KSPCB Clarifies Its Stand
SS Lingaraju, Member Secretary of the KSPCB, confirmed the action and clarified that the board’s move was purely based on environmental grounds.
“The board doesn’t know about any Bigg Boss or television show. Vels Studio is the occupier of that land, and they don’t have the required consent to operate as per the Air Act and Water Act. Due to these non-compliances, a closure order was issued,” he told ANI.
Authorities stated that the studio will remain sealed until it receives the necessary permissions and complies with environmental regulations.
