The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has reconstituted the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) after nearly a decade, featuring notable names from the film and entertainment industry such as Pankaj Tripathi, Preity Zinta, and Rupali Ganguly. The revised certification guidelines introduced by the ministry have once again become a major talking point.
Stricter Rules on Foreign Relations and Violence
The updated guidelines outline the objectives the CBFC must consider before granting theatrical certification to films. Among other provisions, they state that films must be responsible towards societal values and standards, while the certification process must remain sensitive to social changes. They also mandate that violence should not be glorified, and methods of committing crimes or scenes inciting illegal acts should be avoided.
Furthermore, the guidelines explicitly state that films should not promote communal, superstitious, anti-scientific, or anti-national mentalities, and that they must not negatively impact India's friendly relations with foreign countries. This specific provision carries immense weight for films based on India-China geopolitical tensions.
Impact on Salman Khan's Film?
Amidst these stringent norms, Salman Khan's upcoming war drama 'Matribhoomi: May War Rest in Peace' (formerly titled 'Galwan Attack') has captured headlines. The movie is based on the 2020 Galwan Valley military clash between India and China. Recent reports indicate that the film is facing delays in receiving CBFC certification, partly due to its direct references to China.
Industry sources suggest that filmmakers are keen to avoid any unnecessary controversies or diplomatic friction, keeping the shifting dynamics between neighbouring nations in mind. The board is now conducting rigorous scrutiny of titles and thematic elements to ensure compliance with the updated framework.
New Age-Based Categories and Substance Warnings
The revised framework also incorporates stricter regulations regarding the depiction of psychotropic substances and narcotics, making legal warnings mandatory alongside such scenes. Additionally, films will now be categorized strictly into UA, UA 7+, UA 13+, UA 16+, or A ratings depending on their content, ensuring age-appropriate viewing for audiences.
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