<<–2/”>a href=”https://exam.pscnotes.com/5653-2/”>h2>CBFC: The Central Board of Film Certification
What is the CBFC?
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is an Indian statutory body established under the Cinematograph Act, 1952. It is responsible for certifying films for public exhibition in India. The CBFC’s primary function is to ensure that films adhere to the guidelines laid down in the Cinematograph Act and the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 1983.
The Role of the CBFC
The CBFC’s role is multifaceted and encompasses:
- Certification: The CBFC examines films and assigns them a certification rating based on their content. These ratings indicate the suitability of the film for different age groups.
- Content Regulation: The CBFC has the power to suggest cuts, modifications, or deletions to films that it deems unsuitable for public exhibition.
- Enforcement: The CBFC enforces the Cinematograph Act and its rules, taking action against films that violate the regulations.
- Promotion of Indian Cinema: The CBFC actively promotes Indian cinema by encouraging the production of high-quality films and supporting filmmakers.
CBFC Certification Ratings
The CBFC assigns films one of the following certification ratings:
| Rating | Description | Age Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| U | Universal | Suitable for all ages |
| U/A | Parental Guidance | Suitable for children above the age of 7, but parental guidance is advised |
| A | Adults Only | Suitable for viewers above the age of 18 |
| S | Restricted | Suitable for viewers above the age of 18, with specific restrictions on content |
Table 1: CBFC Certification Ratings
The Certification Process
The CBFC follows a detailed process for certifying films:
- Application: Filmmakers submit an application to the CBFC along with the film for certification.
- Examination: The CBFC examines the film and assesses its content against the guidelines laid down in the Cinematograph Act and the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 1983.
- Certification: Based on the examination, the CBFC assigns a certification rating to the film.
- Appeals: Filmmakers can appeal against the CBFC’s decision to the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal (FCAT).
The CBFC’s Powers and Responsibilities
The CBFC has significant powers and responsibilities under the Cinematograph Act:
- Power to Certify: The CBFC has the exclusive power to certify films for public exhibition in India.
- Power to Suggest Cuts: The CBFC can suggest cuts, modifications, or deletions to films that it deems unsuitable for public exhibition.
- Power to Refuse Certification: The CBFC can refuse to certify a film if it violates the guidelines laid down in the Cinematograph Act and the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 1983.
- Power to Issue Show Cause Notices: The CBFC can issue show cause notices to filmmakers for violating the Cinematograph Act and its rules.
- Power to Take Action Against Violators: The CBFC can take action against filmmakers who violate the Cinematograph Act and its rules, including imposing fines and suspending or revoking their licenses.
The CBFC’s Guidelines
The CBFC’s guidelines are based on the Cinematograph Act and the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 1983. These guidelines cover a wide range of issues, including:
- Violence: The CBFC prohibits excessive violence, gratuitous gore, and violence that is likely to incite hatred or prejudice.
- Sex and Nudity: The CBFC prohibits explicit sexual content and nudity that is not essential to the narrative.
- Language: The CBFC prohibits obscene language, profanity, and language that is likely to offend or insult any section of Society.
- Drugs and Alcohol: The CBFC prohibits the glorification of drug use and alcohol abuse.
- Religious Sentiments: The CBFC prohibits content that is likely to hurt religious sentiments or incite communal disharmony.
- National Security: The CBFC prohibits content that is likely to endanger national security or public order.
The CBFC’s Role in Promoting Indian Cinema
The CBFC plays an important role in promoting Indian cinema by:
- Encouraging the Production of High-Quality Films: The CBFC encourages filmmakers to produce high-quality films that are both entertaining and informative.
- Supporting Filmmakers: The CBFC provides support to filmmakers through various schemes and initiatives.
- Promoting Indian Cinema Abroad: The CBFC promotes Indian cinema abroad by participating in international film festivals and events.
Controversies Surrounding the CBFC
The CBFC has been the subject of much controversy over the years. Critics argue that the CBFC is too restrictive and that its guidelines are outdated. They also argue that the CBFC is biased against certain types of films, such as films that deal with sensitive social issues.
Table 2: Controversies Surrounding the CBFC
| Controversy | Description |
|---|---|
| Censorship of Films Dealing with Sensitive Social Issues | The CBFC has been accused of censoring films that deal with sensitive social issues, such as caste, religion, and sexuality. |
| Bias Against Certain Types of Films | The CBFC has been accused of being biased against certain types of films, such as independent films and films that are critical of the government. |
| Outdated Guidelines | The CBFC’s guidelines are outdated and do not reflect the changing social norms of Indian Society. |
| Lack of Transparency | The CBFC’s decision-making process is often opaque and lacks transparency. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the purpose of the CBFC?
The CBFC is responsible for certifying films for public exhibition in India. Its primary function is to ensure that films adhere to the guidelines laid down in the Cinematograph Act and the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 1983.
2. What are the different CBFC certification ratings?
The CBFC assigns films one of the following certification ratings: U (Universal), U/A (Parental Guidance), A (Adults Only), and S (Restricted).
3. How does the CBFC certification process work?
The CBFC examines films and assigns them a certification rating based on their content. Filmmakers can appeal against the CBFC’s decision to the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal (FCAT).
4. What are the CBFC’s powers and responsibilities?
The CBFC has the power to certify films, suggest cuts, refuse certification, issue show cause notices, and take action against violators.
5. What are the CBFC’s guidelines?
The CBFC’s guidelines cover a wide range of issues, including violence, sex and nudity, language, drugs and alcohol, religious sentiments, and national security.
6. What is the CBFC’s role in promoting Indian cinema?
The CBFC encourages the production of high-quality films, supports filmmakers, and promotes Indian cinema abroad.
7. What are some of the controversies surrounding the CBFC?
The CBFC has been criticized for its restrictive guidelines, bias against certain types of films, outdated guidelines, and lack of transparency.
8. How can I appeal against a CBFC decision?
Filmmakers can appeal against the CBFC’s decision to the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal (FCAT).
9. What are the penalties for violating the Cinematograph Act?
Violators of the Cinematograph Act can face fines, imprisonment, or both.
10. What is the future of the CBFC?
The future of the CBFC is uncertain. There is a growing debate about whether the CBFC should be abolished or reformed.