Central Board of Film Certification : In News
Multiple films faced heavy censorship by the CBFC over caste, mythology, and political references.
- The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.
Commonly known as the Censor Board, though it functions mainly as a certification authority. - It works under:
- Cinematograph Act, 1952
- Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 1983
- Guidelines issued by the Central Government
- It regulates the public exhibition of films in India. No film can be released publicly without CBFC certification.
- Headed by a Chairperson, with 12–25 members appointed by the Central Government.
- It operates through nine regional offices: Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Thiruvananthapuram, Hyderabad, New Delhi, Cuttack, and Guwahati.
- Supported by Advisory Panels (nominated by the Government for two-year terms) to assist in film examination.
- Categories of Certification
- U (Universal): Suitable for all age groups.
- U/A: Universal with parental guidance (below 12).
- A: Adults only.
- S: Restricted to special classes (e.g., doctors, farmers).
- New Sub-Categories (2023 Amendment): UA 7+, UA 13+, UA 16+ – aligning with global best practices.