Kerala film festival organisers say 31 films denied screening nod by Centre

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor expressed his shock on Monday, September 21, over the reported denial of screening permission for 31 films selected for the 18th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK). The festival is set to take place in Thiruvananthapuram next week. Tharoor described the decision to deny permission as a significant concern for freedom of expression and India's reputation among filmmakers, writers, and artists.

In response to Tharoor's criticism, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) issued a clarification denying the claim that any films had been denied screening permission. According to the Ministry, six films were requested for more detailed synopses, while others were sent to various sectoral authorities for review based on their content.