Film Certification Times Slashed by Over Half, Minister Reveals

The Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, L Murugan, informed Parliament of a significant reduction in film certification times, now averaging 18 days versus the earlier 48. This announcement coincides with a legal dispute over the Thalapathy Vijay film, Jana Nayagan, highlighting ongoing tensions around certification timelines.

The Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, L Murugan, announced to Parliament that the average timeframe for film certification has significantly reduced. Certification now takes an average of 18 days, compared to the previous limit of 48 working days, he detailed during his response to Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's query in the Lok Sabha.

The implementation of an online certification system has streamlined processes. Currently, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) takes 18 working days for feature films and just three for short films, bypassing previous lengthy procedures stipulated by the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and the updated Certification Rules of 2024, as highlighted in the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting's (MIB) press release.

CBFC data reveals that during 2025-2026, 2248 films were certified for theatrical release, with a handful challenging the certification before higher authorities post the abolition of the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal in 2021. Meanwhile, the film industry is currently witnessing a legal battle over Thalapathy Vijay's 'Jana Nayagan', with delays in its certification drawing attention. The dispute continues as cases progress through the high courts, scrutinizing CBFC actions on certification.

(With inputs from agencies.)