04 October 2023, 07:46 PM IST Vishal | Photo: N.M. Pradeep | Matrubhumi
New Delhi: Actor Vishal’s allegation that he paid a bribe to get the censor certificate for the Hindi version of the film Mark Antony shook the entire film world. The central government has also announced an inquiry into the matter. Following this, the Central Censor Board has issued new guidelines on the things to be followed when films apply for a censor certificate.
The CBFC issued a statement in response to the bribery allegations leveled by Vishal. Also talking about new guidelines. They say that it is not the board members but illegal third party intermediaries who are behind the bribery incident. At the same time, the Censor Board says that in response to Vishal’s complaint, all the procedures for applying for film censorship have been digitized and this will not lead to corruption.
Looking deeper into the issue. Those responsible will be found and strict action will be taken. The process of submitting films to censorship has been digitized. All filmmakers and producers are expected to ensure that the exact digitalization process through e-cinema is strictly followed. Do not allow a third intermediary or group in this. Application for certification of film should be made as per prescribed criteria. The statement also said that last minute rush steps should not be taken.
CBFC certifies between 12,000-18,000 films annually. It also includes human time to view their exhibits. The demands of the producers to release their films on the scheduled date are accepted sincerely and permission is granted on time. Keeping the schedules in mind, the board asked the manufacturers to properly plan the specific time required for the certification process and pointed out that any kind of interference by third parties can be prevented through these processes.
CBFC Key guidelines issued in brief
1. Application for certificate should be submitted online only within stipulated time.
2. Copy of certificates will be scanned and shared on the registered email id of the concerned applicant. A physical copy of the certificate should be sent if requested by the Censor Board.
3. E-delivery may be done for verification of encrypted digital movie package (contents). It increases the security of submitted content and can track the applicant’s online content status. Until the implementation of the new system, the current practice of sealing the content under CCT surveillance at regional offices will continue.
4. In relation to grievance redressal grievance.cbfc@gmail.com A mail id has been created. It will be operational soon. If any third party claims to be a representative of the Censor Board or claims to have access to CBFC, demands money or sums or tries to subvert the prescribed procedure, a complaint against them should be brought to the above cell immediately.
Vishal’s corruption allegation was through a video shared on X. Vishal revealed that he had to pay a bribe of Rs 6.5 lakh to get the censor certificate for the Hindi version of Mark Antony. Vishal said that he did not know who had a share in the money he gave and six lakhs was the price he paid for the truth to come out. The actor clarified that he is fighting against corruption not only in films. Vishal added that he does not know about Bollywood and there is nothing like this in South Indian cinema. Vishal shared the video tagging Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister. Following this, Vishal welcomed the inquiry undertaken by the central government.
