‘Don’t clip creativity’

Mona

The draft of Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2021 by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, proposes age-based certification, intended provisions against piracy and Censor Board certification for perpetuity as opposed to 10 years that it is at the moment; while also proposing revisional power to the Central Government.

While the film fraternity embraces the steps towards age-based certification and curbing piracy, it’s the centre’s role in film clearance that’s come on the radar. It is a blow to creativity which is the essence of filmmaking, say filmmakers.

Certification could be limiting

As a victim of piracy I really welcome the provisions against it as a filmmaker. While age specific certification I understand, it can lead to some confusion to filmmakers. But, that’s still something which can be worked on. Once the CBFC has classified the film, the Central Government can take a call when it comes to complaint that may bring in issues related to ‘sovereignty and integrity of India’, the security of the State and friendly relations with foreign States. As a filmmaker and student of international politics, I understand the issue but would others understand it? It’s my humble submission to the government to relook at it. To show reality, one needs certain kind of freedom. With new changes any filmmaker or writer would feel restricted. We filmmakers are responsible enough. There is a difference between certification and regulation. I am all for regulation, but any kind of certification is limiting. We should work responsibly , and the government should not worry too much.

Rahul Mittra, actor, producer

Robbing the industry of its essence

On the face of it, it has all the right things – age-based certification, protection against piracy, but it shows only one thing – it’s an attempt to control filmmaking in India. It’s a threat at a different level. Earlier, we had interference from the Censor Board, but now it is political thing. Now, they can decide whether a film should go forward or not, which is unheard of. In the recent years, we have seen an indirect attempt at controlling filmmaking in terms of how people, specific films or series are targeted, and this seems like an endorsement of that behaviour. Censorship is great for the government, but it’s not so great for the audience. Audience would just seek content from outside the country. They will just stop watching our films. They are robbing it of its most central and important aspect, which is creativity. The central government getting involved in filmmaking, taking a call on its content is crazy. Don’t they have a country to run?

Madhurita Anand, film director, writer and producer

No more freedom of expression

In the name of stopping piracy and other things, the proposed changes are going to curb the freedom of expression. The central government will have the power to reverse the order of the Censor Board. That means a film that does not fit in their scheme of things or is anti-establishment will not see the light of the day.

Ashwini Chaudhary, writer, director

Responsibility lies on both sides

A change in censorship was the need of the hour because we were stuck with age-old rules and regulations. Bifurcating the U and U/A ratings is a welcome change. With the proposed rules, the government will have the power to stop or ban any film even after clearance from the Censor Board. Cinema is a creative field and creativity should not be kept or bound by laws. But at the same time filmmakers also should make sure they do not produce any content which can destabilise the harmony and peace of the nation.

Mandeep Chaahal, writer, director

Democracy in danger

The recent proposal gives uncontrolled power to the government with regard to decision on films. This is disturbing, it is a little dangerous in democracy. It would lead to contentions for freedom of speech and expression, is how I see it.

Komal Nahta, trade analyst