The Cinematograph Act, 1952, is a law in India that governs the certification and regulation of films for public viewing. Its main aim is to ensure that movies shown in theaters follow certain standards and do not harm public morals, decency, or law and order.
Key Highlights:
- The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) (also called the Censor Board) is created under this Act.
- Every movie must be certified before it can be released in cinemas.
- The CBFC can give 4 types of certificates:
- U – For all ages (Universal)
- UA – Parental guidance for children below 12
- A – Adults only (18+)
- S – For a special class (e.g., doctors, police)
- The Board can ask filmmakers to cut scenes or refuse to certify a movie if it:
- Promotes violence, obscenity, or hate
- Hurts religious or national sentiments
- Threatens national security or public order
- The Act also punishes unauthorized film screenings and piracy.
Cinematograph Act, 1952 – FAQs
1. What is the Cinematograph Act, 1952?
It is a law that controls how movies are certified and shown in India to ensure they don’t harm public morality or order.
2. What is CBFC?
CBFC stands for Central Board of Film Certification, also called the Censor Board. It watches movies and gives them ratings.
3. Do all movies need CBFC certification?
Yes, every film must be certified by the CBFC before it can be shown in cinemas or released publicly.
4. What are the different film certificates?
U – Suitable for all
UA – Children under 12 need parental guidance
A – Adults only (18+)
S – For a specific profession/class (like doctors or scientists)
5. Can CBFC cut scenes from movies?
Yes. CBFC can ask for cuts or changes if scenes are considered vulgar, violent, hateful, or offensive.
6. Can the CBFC ban a movie completely?
Yes. If a movie is found to be harmful to law, order, morality, or national interest, CBFC can refuse to certify it.
7. Can filmmakers appeal if CBFC refuses certification?
Yes. Filmmakers can appeal to the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal (FCAT) (now replaced by the High Court process).
8. What happens if a film is shown without certification?
It is illegal and punishable under this Act, including fines and jail time.
9. Does this Act apply to web series or OTT platforms?
No, OTT content is regulated separately (by IT Rules, 2021), not under this Act.
10. Can people under 18 watch ‘A’ certified films?
No. ‘A’ certified films are legally restricted to adults only.
11. Can CBFC remove political content?
Yes, if it thinks the content may disturb public order, spread hate, or is against the sovereignty of India.
12. Are religious themes allowed in films?
Yes, but only if they are respectful and not likely to hurt sentiments or cause tension.
13. Who appoints CBFC members?
The Central Government appoints the chairperson and members of CBFC.
14. Are documentaries also censored?
Yes. Even short films, documentaries, and ads shown in public theaters need CBFC approval.
15. Can I privately show a film without CBFC approval?
No. Any public screening, even if private or non-commercial, needs certification if shown outside your home.
16. Is film piracy covered under this law?
Yes. Recent amendments include punishment for camcording or piracy inside cinema halls.
17. What is the punishment for piracy under this Act?
Up to 3 years of jail and/or a ₹10 lakh fine for unauthorized recording or distribution.
18. Has the law changed recently?
Yes, in 2023, the Act was amended to strengthen anti-piracy rules and promote faster certification.
19. Can the CBFC stop a movie after certification?
No. Once a movie is certified, only a court or government can intervene in special cases.
20. Why do some people criticize this Act?
Some say it limits freedom of expression, and that censorship should be replaced by age-based classification only.
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