CBFC Responds to Vishal's Allegations with Digitization of Certification Process

Recently, the Tamil film "Mark Antony," starring Vishal and SJ Suryah, gained significant attention due to its success among both audiences and critics. The film's positive reception prompted the producers to consider releasing a Hindi-dubbed version.

However, on September 28, actor-producer Vishal made a startling claim through a video message and a written note. He accused the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Mumbai of demanding a bribe amounting to Rs 6.5 lakh for the Hindi censorship of the film.

In his message, Vishal expressed his deep concern about corruption, particularly within government offices, and the disturbing situation he encountered at the CBFC Mumbai office. He revealed that he had to make two transactions, one of 3 lakhs for screening and another of 3.5 lakhs for the certification, totaling 6.5 lakhs. This was a situation he had never faced before in his career.

Now, the CBFC has issued a statement clarifying that the corruption allegations were not linked to its board members but instead involved a third party. In response to the complaint, they have taken proactive steps to implement a digitized process aimed at reducing manual work, thereby minimizing the potential for corrupt practices.

The CBFC's statement regarding recent developments reads as follows:

"In light of recent developments, we have thoroughly examined the issues at hand. It is important to clarify that the individuals mentioned are not CBFC officials but unauthorized third-party intermediaries.

We have promptly acknowledged the feedback and are conducting a comprehensive investigation into the matter with the utmost seriousness. We are committed to uncovering the root of this issue and will take strict actions accordingly.

To address this situation, we have already initiated an aggressive digitization process, incorporating automation and minimizing manual intervention. Additionally, the CBFC will implement further measures.

Concurrently, we urge all filmmakers and producers to strictly adhere to the prescribed digitized process through E-Cinepramaan. Any individual or group claiming to be intermediaries or agents in this process should not be engaged with or tolerated.

Producers should apply for film certification within the specified timeframes and not wait until the last moment. Each year, the CBFC certifies between 12,000 to 18,000 films, and human time is needed to review them. Sometimes, the committees sincerely accommodate urgent requests from producers to meet release deadlines. However, the pressure of tight schedules and the CBFC's support are not always fully recognized.

To avoid these issues, producers should plan and respect the time needed for the certification process while keeping their release schedules in mind

At the organizational level, steps will be taken to make sure that third-party interference or process mistakes are completely removed. To begin with, these actions will be put in place swiftly:

No Physical Document Submission:

Applicants or their representatives won't be allowed to submit physical documents in person at a later stage. All documents must be uploaded during the online application process.

Digital Certificate Delivery:

Instead of receiving a physical certificate, applicants will have their certificates scanned and sent to their registered email address. Physical copies of the certificate will be dispatched only if requested

Digital Content Delivery:

Instead of physically sealing DCP/DVD copies, we will electronically deliver encrypted digital Cinema Packages (Content) for examination. This enhances content security and allows us to track the status of online content submissions. Until the new system is fully implemented, the current practice of sealing will continue at all regional offices, monitored by CCTV.

Establishing a Grievance Mechanism:

We will soon introduce a grievance mechanism at "grievance.cbfc@gmail.com" on the CBFC website. If any third party falsely claims representation or access to the CBFC, demands money, or tries to manipulate the proper process, please report them immediately to this grievance cell.

These measures and important points will be communicated to official film bodies and producers for discussion and compliance"

The CBFC's statement has brought relief and garnered appreciation from many, with some expressing gratitude towards Vishal for highlighting the issue. It's encouraging to see steps being taken to improve the certification process and eliminate corruption.

-by Vishnupriya