Role of central board of film certification: A critical overview of film censorship in India

If freedom of speech is taken away, then the dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter. -George Washington

The Indian Constitution by virtue of it‟s Article 19(1)(a), provides freedom of speech and expression through various modes and one of such prominent and influential implement is cinema, which provides freedom of speech and expression through ideas, stories or even one‟s views, it provides the film makers the liberty to discuss even the sensitive issues freely. The cinema commonly termed as films had been a potent tool of expression since it‟s inception in 19th century. The Indian cinema being one of the largest film industry, produces more than 2000 films in various languages every year and with such diverseness comes along certain restrictions too, in the interest of public and the State. The freedom of expression is not an absolute one, the sensitive ideas and issues which are being discussed through films are subjected to opposition by the citizens many times due to the kind of content or issues it is based upon, for example the film „Padmaavat‟ which faced a huge outrage before it could be exhibited publicly. The Cinematograph Act, 1952 has been constituted by the legislation for the imposition of censorship on films that is, for suppression of the part which is either objectionable or offensive or which is inappropriate or sensitive and for grant of certification but unfortunately there is misuse of the power of censorship by intervention of higher authorities, politicians etc. for suppressing the freedom of expression and as a result there arises a need for regulating such laws in order to neutralize the balance of freedom of speech and expression and the restrictions being imposed.