Explainer: Not because of bold scenes, but because of these 5 big reasons, films are banned, know the complete law of Censor Board.

Why Do Movies Get Banned: India is one of the largest film markets in the world, where hundreds of films are released every year in different languages. But it is not so easy for any film to reach the big screen. Any film has to go through a long and detailed process before being released in theatres. The most important link in this process is the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which is commonly called the Censor Board.

The job of the Censor Board is not only to give certificates to films, but also to ensure that the content shown in films is in accordance with Indian laws, constitutional values ​​and social norms. Many times filmmakers are instructed to remove some scenes, change dialogues or mute some parts. In some cases, films are banned completely. Often people think that films are banned only because of bold or obscene scenes, but the truth is much different than this. So let us know how the certification of films is done in India and under what circumstances a film can be banned.

What is CBFC and what is its role?

The Central Board of Film Certification is an organization working under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting of the Government of India. Its main objective is to review films and give them appropriate category certificate based on their content. No film can be publicly displayed in theaters without CBFC certificate. The board ensures that the content of the film does not violate any law and does not have a negative impact on the society.

Certificates given to films

CBFC issues certificates in various categories considering the subject matter, language, violence, emotional impact and other elements of the film. As-

U (universal)

This category is for those films which are considered suitable for audiences of every age category. All family members can watch such movies without any restrictions.

UA (Parental Guidance)

Movies in this category can be watched by everyone, but for underage children, supervision or guidance from guardians is considered necessary. There may be some scenes or topics in the film which require maturity to understand.

A (Adults Only)

Films with this certificate are only for audiences 18 years of age or older. These may include violence, serious topics, mature dialogue or adult content.

S (Specialized Audience)

This category is reserved for special professional groups, like doctors, scientists or people associated with a particular field. Public screening of these types of films may be limited.

How is the certification of a film decided?

When a producer wants to release his film, he has to submit the film to CBFC. After this the screening committee of the board looks at the film in detail. The committee checks whether there is any scene, dialogue or presentation in the film which can create problems for the law or society. If necessary, filmmakers are instructed to change certain parts, cut, blur or mute the audio. The film is given final certificate only after following the instructions.

For what reasons can a film be banned?

Censor Board and related government agencies can ban films under certain circumstances. There can be many serious reasons behind this.

1. National security and integrity of the country

If a film has content that is considered against the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India, then it can be banned. Supporting anti-national activities, glorifying terrorism, promoting separatist ideas or material that harms national security can be grounds for ban.

2. Threat to law and order

If there is a possibility of riots, communal tension, caste conflict or public unrest due to any film, then the administration and the censor board can take action against it. Such films are not allowed to be released which may affect social peace.

3. Hurting religious and social sentiments

India is a diverse country where many religions, cultures and communities live together. Content that insults any religion, deity, religious symbol, revered personality or community can cause controversy. If there is a possibility of a film hurting religious or social sentiments on a large scale, it can be banned or instructions can be given to modify it.

4. Excessive obscenity and sexual violence

Merely showing bold scenes is not a reason for a ban, but if a film has presented excessive obscenity, sexual exploitation or sexual violence in a sensational manner without the need of the story, then the Censor Board can take a strict stance. In such cases the film may be sent for cuts or in severe cases certification may even be denied.

5. Negative impact on children and youth

Films have a deep impact on society, especially on children and teenagers. Excessively violent, frightening or mentally disturbing scenes can have a negative impact on the minds of children. For this reason, the Censor Board takes special care regarding this type of content and applies strict censorship when necessary.

Does every controversial film get banned?

It’s not like that. Many times, despite controversies, films are allowed to be released with some changes and cuts. The purpose of the Censor Board is not to stop films, but to make them conform to the prescribed rules. However, when a film violates the law, national interest or serious issues related to public safety, then steps like banning can be taken.

Also read: Explainer: Why are suicide cases increasing from Bollywood to TV? Mental pressure, insecurity or something else, know the big reasons