Benegal panel can revamp Censor Board image
It is possible that recent controversies regarding Central Board of Film Certification Chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani's conduct proved to be the trigger for the Union Government's decision to appoint a panel that will suggest a revamp of the board's functioning. Mr Nihalani has been in the news for allegedly demonstrating an over-zeal for promoting what has popularly come to be known as Indian sanskari traditions, thereby clamping down on the freedom of expression of the creative medium that films are. His stand baffled many because he is a film director himself and knows the importance flexibility has in making a film. But it would be wrong to define the Government's move as a mere response to an individual's action.
The idea behind the committee is to have a comprehensive review of various aspects of the CBFC, more commonly referred to as the Censor Board, ranging from its functioning in a less subjective manner to film certification procedures. There cannot be any doubt that the panel will be able to discharge its duty in an effective manner in the two months it has at its disposal, given that it is headed by the universally respected and award-winner director Shyam Benegal and comprises other noted personalities connected with the film industry. The recommendations it forwards to the Government will hopefully have tangible solutions to end arbitrariness and personal discretion in giving film certifications. For decades, the CBFC has been saddled with age-old rules which are being applied to new thinking — and this has naturally led to confrontation between film-makers and the board.
And so, it is certainly not the case that problems have erupted only now, with Mr Nihalani in the saddle. Times have changed and Indian sensibilities too have transformed. Yes, it's true that certain core Indian values have remained strong; and they should continue to do so, because that's what distinguishes the Indian value system. However, the problem arises when these are misinterpreted and used to stifle freedom of the film industry. The misinterpretation mainly occurs because an individual or a bunch of individuals in the certification process decides what is ‘appropriate' — not based on clear guidelines but on their own perceptions. This is why one of the important mandates of the Benegal panel is to suggest “broad guidelines” and “procedures” under the provisions of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and its Rules.
Being a well-read and well-travelled man with an intimate knowledge of film-making, Mr Benegal brings to his new task an understanding that few of his peers can boast of. His credentials ensure that the suggestions of the panel will be seriously considered. We don't know what those recommendations will be, but most certainly the method of certification will get deep attention. There is talk that a mechanism for ‘self-certification' by producers/directors may be forwarded. This idea will not work; it's like a prosecutor being given the authority to pronounce verdict on his own case. An independent certification body backed by progressive rules will do. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who reportedly nudged the Information and Broadcasting Ministry towards the change, and I & B Minister Arun Jaitley, who responded promptly, deserve praise.