The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), often referred to as the Indian film “censor board,” has responded to allegations of corruption made by Tamil actor Vishal. The CBFC expressed its commitment to transparency in the film certification process while addressing Vishal’s accusations.
In an official statement, the CBFC acknowledged that it has implemented an online certification system and provided regular updates on system improvements for film producers and applicants. However, despite these efforts, some filmmakers continue to use intermediaries or agents to facilitate the certification process. This practice undermines the CBFC’s goal of eliminating third-party involvement.
Actor Vishal's allegations on CBFC | CBFC says, "It has been noticed that despite the online certification system i.e. E-Cinepramaan in place and regular updates on new system improvements for the film producers/applicants, they still choose to apply through intermediaries or… pic.twitter.com/kVZchmB9mj
— ANI (@ANI) September 29, 2023
The CBFC stated, “With the implementation of aggressive digitization, complete process automation, and emphasis on minimal human intervention, the interference of intermediaries/agents has come down significantly; however, the practice still exists in some regions, which is defeating the purpose of transparency and smooth functioning of the certification process.”
The film certification body emphasized its commitment to addressing the issue of intermediaries and urged filmmakers to apply for certification well in advance to meet their release schedules. While the CBFC encourages a standard application process, it noted that in cases of extreme urgency, producers and filmmakers may approach higher officials at the CBFC with a written request and reasonable grounds for an early examination, which may be considered on merit.
Vishal, a prominent Tamil actor, had publicly accused officials at the CBFC of corruption. In a nearly four-minute video addressed to Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vishal named two individuals from the censor board and provided details of online bank transfers related to his film certification.
The allegations sparked a swift response from the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, which oversees the CBFC. The ministry announced that it was conducting an inquiry into the matter.
Vishal had claimed that he paid ₹6.5 lakhs for the CBFC to certify the Hindi version of his new film, ‘Mark Antony,’ which was released in northern Indian states. His allegations and the subsequent government response drew significant attention and raised concerns about corruption in the film certification process.
In a recent post on social media, Vishal thanked the Information and Broadcasting Ministry for taking immediate steps to address the issue. He expressed hope that the actions taken would serve as an example for government officials to choose the honest route and avoid corruption.
The CBFC’s response underscores the importance of transparency and streamlining in the film certification process. While digital systems and automation have been implemented to reduce intermediaries, it is clear that challenges remain in certain regions. The CBFC’s commitment to addressing these challenges and ensuring a fair and efficient certification process is essential for the Indian film industry’s integrity and reputation.
As the inquiry into Vishal’s allegations proceeds, the film industry and the public will be closely watching to see how the CBFC addresses issues of corruption and maintains transparency in the certification process.
