Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC)
Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is a statutory and regulatory body. Learn about the Central Board of Film Certification, its history, functions, and certification types.
Deeksha Dixit25 Nov, 2024
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Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is an important regulatory body in India responsible for certifying films for public exhibition. Known commonly as the Censor Board, it plays a crucial role in balancing creative freedom with societal sensitivities.
No film can be screened in India without obtaining a certificate from the CBFC. By regulating the content of films, the CBFC ensures that public screenings align with the values and sensitivities of Indian society. Keep reading to learn more about this organization!What is Censor Board?
The Censor Board is officially known as the Central Board of Film Certification. It is a statutory and regulatory body in India under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting . CBFC operates under the Cinematograph Act, 1952, ensuring that films adhere to legal and ethical standards before being released to the public. The board is also tasked with ensuring films respect freedom of speech and expression while avoiding content that may incite hatred or unrest.| Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) - Overview | |
| Aspect | Details |
| CBFC Full Form | Central Board of Film Certification |
| Parent Body | Central Board of Film Censors in 1952 |
| History | Came into existence with the revision of cinematography rules in 1983 |
| Mandate | Regulates public exhibition of films under Cinematograph Act, 1952. Films can only be screened after certification. |
| CBFC Structure | Chairperson and 12 to 25 members, appointed by the central government. |
| Current Chairperson | Prasoon Joshi |
| Qualifications of Members | Experts from social science, education, law, arts, and filmmaking. |
| Categories of Film Certification | U, A, U/A and S |
| Headquarters | Mumbai |
Evolution of Censorship in Indian Cinema
Censorship in Indian cinema dates back to the colonial era when films were scrutinised for their potential influence on the masses for the freedom movement. The evolution of modern CBFC post-independence was as follows:- Pre-Independence: Film censorship was fragmented, with regional boards operating independently in cities like Madras, Bombay, Calcutta, Lahore, and Rangoon.
- 1951-1952: The Central Board of Film Censors (later CBFC) was formed under the Cinematograph Act of 1952 to unify and standardize censorship across India.
- 1983: The Central Board of Film Certification was established under the cinematography rules in 1983.
- Present Day: The Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024, aim to modernise and streamline the certification process further.
Cinematograph Act 1952
The Cinematograph Act of 1952 was a landmark legislation that laid down the legal framework for the Central Board of Film Certification. It gave the government the power to regulate films in India and set the guidelines for film certification. The Act empowers the CBFC to grant certificates, ban films, or recommend cuts if a film violates the prescribed standards. Some key provisions of the Cinematograph Act 1952 are as follows:- Film Certification: Establishes categories for film suitability based on audience age.
- Appeals Mechanism : Allows filmmakers to contest CBFC decisions through a revising committee or tribunal.
- Prohibition of Obscene Content: Prevents films from depicting indecent or inflammatory material.
Film Certificate Types
The Central Board of Film Certification issues several types of certificates to films based on their content and intended audience. The different certification categories are:| Film Certificate Types | |
| Certificate | Purpose |
| U (Universal) | Suitable for all audiences, including children. |
| UA (Universal Adult) | Suitable for children above 12 years with parental guidance. |
| A (Adult) | Restricted to adult audiences (18 years and above) due to mature content. |
| S (Special) | Restricted to specialized audiences such as professionals or educational institutions. |
Functions of Central Board of Film Certification
The Central Board of Film Certification has several key functions that are crucial for the smooth regulation of films in India. The key functions include:- Film Certification: The primary function of the CBFC is to certify films for public exhibition. It ensures that films are classified based on their content and that they adhere to the guidelines.
- Reviewing Films : The CBFC reviews films to determine whether they comply with the standards of public decency and morality. It may recommend cuts or refuse certification if a film violates these standards.
- Maintaining Records : The CBFC maintains records of films that have been submitted for certification, ensuring transparency and proper tracking of films that have been approved or rejected.
Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024
The Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024 have been introduced following the Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023, replacing the older Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 1983. These updated rules bring several important changes that aim to modernize the film certification process, make it more inclusive, and increase efficiency in handling films. Some of its key provisions are:- Online Certification: The CBFC certification process is now digital, speeding up approvals and reducing delays.
- Faster Processing: Certification timelines have been shortened, ensuring quicker approvals for filmmakers.
- Inclusive Accessibility: Films must include accessibility features (e.g., subtitles and audio descriptions) for disabled viewers.
- Age-Based Classification: The UA category is now split into three age groups: UA 7+, UA 13+, and UA 16+, offering clearer guidance for parents.
- Women’s Representation: One-third of CBFC Board members and Advisory Panels must be women, ensuring better gender balance.
- Priority Screening: Films now have a priority screening system for faster and more transparent processing.
- Perpetual Certificate Validity: CBFC certificates now have perpetual validity, removing the 10-year limit.
- Television Recertification : Edited films for television must be recertified to ensure they meet Unrestricted Public Exhibition (U) standards.
| UPSC Related Articles | ||
| Chief Justice of India | Mission Karmayogi | UPSC Prelims Questions |
| Parliament Sessions | Cooperative Federalism | Anti-Defection Law |
Central Board of Film Certification FAQs
Who regulates movies in India?
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) regulates movies in India.
What is Central Board of Film Certification?
The CBFC is a statutory body responsible for certifying films in India for public exhibition.
What is a certificate in film?
A certificate in film categorises movies into groups like U, UA, A, and S based on audience suitability.
How does CBFC impact freedom of speech and expression?
CBFC ensures films respect freedom of expression while avoiding content that could harm public order.
Does the CBFC regulate OTT platforms?
CBFC does not directly regulate OTT platforms, but discussions on OTT censorship in India are ongoing.
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