Archive · 3 Oct 2025
Editorial: CBFC Criticized for Overreach and Curtailing Artistic Freedom
Imagine a group that decides which movies you can watch.
That's like the CBFC in India.
They're supposed to make sure movies are okay to show, but some people think they're going too far.
They've changed many hours of film, even cutting scenes from movies.
The people in charge of the CBFC haven't been fully appointed for a while, making it harder to challenge their decisions.
Without a way to appeal their choices, filmmakers are frustrated.
Some worry this is about the government controlling what people see and stifling creativity.
Courts have tried to remind the CBFC of its role, but some argue their message isn't being heard.
The CBFC is criticized for exceeding its mandate and policing content.
CBFC has altered more than 720 hours of film content in the past eight years.
The tenure of the current board lapsed in 2020; no official meetings since 2019.
The Film Certification Appellate Tribunal, which offered appeals, was abolished in 2021.
Critics say CBFC’s actions curtail artistic freedom and infantilise audiences.
- Who
- Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and filmmakers.
- What
- The CBFC is facing criticism for exceeding its mandate and censoring content.
- When
- The CBFC has altered content over the last eight years; Current Board tenure lapsed in 2020; Appellate Tribunal abolished in 2021.
- Where
- India
- Why
- Critics allege the CBFC is curtailing artistic freedom and censoring films.
Filmmakers and Critics
CBFC
Artistic Freedom
Filmmakers and Critics
The CBFC's censorship stifles creative expression and artistic freedom.
CBFC
Not explicitly mentioned
Content Regulation
Filmmakers and Critics
The CBFC's actions overstep their role, imposing unjustified cuts and moral judgments.
CBFC
Not explicitly mentioned
Transparency and Accountability
Filmmakers and Critics
Lack of appellate authority makes the CBFC less accountable.
CBFC
Not explicitly mentioned
- Organization
- Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC)
- Mandate
- Reviewing and certifying films
- Content Alterations
- Over 720 hours of film content altered
- Deleted Footage (2017-2025)
- ~550 hours
- Appellate Tribunal
- Abolished in 2021
- Current Board Tenure
- Lapsed in 2020