The government has updated the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) by introducing the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024, replacing the old ones from 1983.
The certification process has been updated to accommodate digital advancements, making it quicker and more transparent.
A “priority screening” provision has been added to expedite certification for urgent film releases, ensuring fairness.
To ensure diversity, the new rules mandate that at least one-third of CBFC Board members be women, with a preference for half, aiming to address gender imbalances in decision-making roles.
Furthermore, the rules emphasize inclusivity by involving disabled individuals in CBFC’s Advisory Panels, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered during certification.
Previously, there were three age-based categories: U (Universal), UA (12+), and A (Adults only 18+).
The new rules introduce three new age-based categories for films, namely UA 7+, UA 13+, and UA 16+, to help viewers choose age-appropriate content. These categories are advisory, allowing parents to decide what’s suitable for their children.
Certificates from CBFC will now have perpetual validity, removing the previous 10-year limit. Additionally, films edited for television broadcast must be recertified if they don’t fall under the Unrestricted Public Exhibition (U) category.
