This article, written by Aayushi Shukla, explores the key provisions, objectives, and impact of the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024, highlighting the significant changes in India’s film certification process.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has introduced the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024, replacing the outdated 1983 rules, in accordance with the Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023. The new rules aim to modernize and streamline the film certification process in India, keeping pace with emerging technologies and developments in the digital era.
Need for Cinematograph Rules
These rules were needed to:
- Provide certification for cinematograph films for exhibition and regulate exhibitions.
- Establish an online certification process.
Main Reasons for Implementing the Cinematograph Act
- Protect Public Morality – Ensure films do not contain obscene or morally objectionable content.
- Prevent Public Disorder – Regulate film content to prevent material that may incite violence or disturb public peace.
- Control Misinformation – Prevent the spread of false information or propaganda that may harm public order or national security.
- Standardize Film Certification – Establish a formal system for categorizing films based on age suitability.
- Promote Responsible Filmmaking – Encourage socially responsible content aligned with cultural values.
Prohibited Films
Films not certified for public exhibition are prohibited if they are against:
- The sovereignty and integrity of India
- The security of the State
- Friendly relations with foreign States
- Public order
- Defamation
- Likely to incite any offense
Authority
The Central Government has the authority to issue guidelines for film certification, ensuring alignment with legal and social norms.
Advisory Panel
- Regional advisory panels assist the CBFC (Censor Board) in film evaluation.
- Panel members are qualified to assess public impact.
- Panels recommend certification decisions to the Board.
Online Certification Process
- Enhances transparency, efficiency, and ease of business for the film industry.
- Fully digital processes reduce certification time.
Age-Based Classification
The ‘UA’ category is subdivided into:
- UA 7+ (suitable for children above 7 years)
- UA 13+ (suitable for children above 13 years)
- UA 16+ (suitable for children above 16 years)
Accessibility Standards for Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan)
- Films must include closed captions and audio descriptions for visually and hearing-impaired audiences.
- Cinema halls must provide assistive equipment and mobile apps for accessibility.
Women Representation in CBFC
- At least one-third of CBFC members must be women.
- Advisory panels should have preferably 50% women representation.
Key Updates in Film Regulations
- Digital Certification Process – Integrated online system enhances transparency and efficiency.
- Age-Based Classification – UA category now divided into UA 7+, UA 13+, and UA 16+.
- Perpetual Certificate Validity – Certification is now valid indefinitely.
- TV Broadcast Recertification – Films must be recertified for unrestricted public exhibition on television.
- Enhanced Accessibility – Mandatory accessibility features for disabled audiences.
- Improved Gender Representation – Minimum one-third CBFC members must be women.
Perpetual Validity of Certificates
- CBFC certificates now have unlimited validity, removing the previous 10-year expiration period.
TV Broadcast Recertification
- Only Unrestricted Public Exhibition category films can be broadcast on television after recertification.
Conclusion
The Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024, modernize India’s film certification system with digital processes, age-based classification, perpetual certification validity, and inclusivity measures. These updates improve transparency, efficiency, and accessibility. However, challenges remain in balancing artistic freedom with regulatory oversight. The success of these rules will depend on their effective implementation and adaptability to evolving industry needs.
