Consider the following statements regarding the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC):

Statement-I: There is CBFC certification for TV programs and serials. Only certified films should be shown on Cable TV.

Statement-II: Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is a statutory body regulating the public exhibition of films under the provisions of the Cinematograph Act 1952.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

The correct answer is option 4.

In News

• The CBFC blocked the TV release of the Malayalam film Marco, citing its portrayal of extreme violence. The film was denied satellite rights as it failed to meet the requirements for television viewing, even with extensive cuts.

Key Points

• There is no CBFC certification for TV programs and serials. Instead, content and advertisement codes are prescribed under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995. But, Only certified films should be shown on Cable TV. 
  • Hence, Statement-I is incorrect.
• The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is a statutory body responsible for certifying films for public exhibition under the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
  • Hence, Statement-II is correct.

Additional Information

• Films certified as ‘A’ (Adult Only) for theatrical release require re-certification (usually as ‘U’ or ‘UA’) for television screening.
• The CBFC has the authority to refuse certification if a film contains extreme violence, obscenity, or content violating the prescribed guidelines.
• While CBFC regulates films, TV content falls under the purview of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, which enforces program and advertisement codes under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995.