Filmmaker Slams CBFC: Dictatorship Over Creative Freedom?

Filmmaker Honey Trehan has sharply criticized the Central Board of Film Certification's (CBFC) recent issuance of five new directives. Trehan characterized these guidelines as reflecting "cowardice" and "dictatorship," contrasting them with a democratic stance on freedom of speech.

His remarks arise from the unresolved issues surrounding his film 'Satluj,' which was removed from Zee5 mere days after its release in July. The film, based on the life of activist Jaswant Singh Khalra and starring Diljit Dosanjh, faced significant delays in certification prior to its streaming debut.

The newly reconstituted CBFC, chaired by Shashi Shekhar Vempati, issued these directives as an advisory. Key points include the requirement for submitted films to be complete and that announced release dates are not binding. Film titles will also remain subject to review and potential modification by the board.

Separately, the Delhi High Court has issued notices to the Centre, CBFC, and Zee Studios concerning the teaser for Sunny Deol's upcoming film 'Suryaa: Ant Se Aarambh Tak.' This action follows a petition from four doctors who object to the teaser's portrayal of medical professionals as corrupt, fearing it could incite violence against them.