CBFC rules explained: What the new guidelines say about China, violence, drugs and titles

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has recently revised its certification guidelines, reigniting discussions among filmmakers and the entertainment industry. The guidelines emphasize that films should be responsible and sensitive to societal values and standards, promoting social change, and avoiding glorification of violence or depictions of crimes against women.

They also advise against content that could strain India's friendly relations with foreign states, including China, as seen in the ongoing efforts to improve bilateral ties between the two nations.

One of the notable aspects of the revised guidelines is the specific provision concerning the depiction of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Films featuring scenes involving their consumption, use, or trafficking are mandated to include a statutory warning or disclaimer: "Illicit Narcotics Destroy Health and Guarantees Imprisonment. Say No To Drugs."

Furthermore, the guidelines stress the importance of film titles, urging the board to scrutinize them carefully and ensure they are not provocative, vulgar, offensive, or in violation of the certification guidelines. This provision has particular relevance given the current controversies surrounding film titles, as demonstrated by the Malayalam film Janaki vs State of Kerala, which faced objections due to the use of a name associated with a Hindu deity for the lead character, a sexual-assault survivor. The controversy eventually led to a title change and a court ruling in favor of the film.