Mired by a number of controversies over unnecessary cuts, the CBFC, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, has launched Online Film Certification System or E-Cinepramaan. The new system that aims at transparency will come into effect beginning April 1.
“This is a big step towards making the CBFC paperless and transparent, enabling effective monitoring and real-time progress tracking for applicants,” I&B minister Venkaiah Naidu asserted.
This will enable minimum interface between film producers and censor board officials. Producers will be able to track the status of their application online and will also be informed through SMSes and e-mails and if any action is needed. The system also has in-built alerts to ensure that time-limits are adhered to.
While for short films, promos and trailers of less than 10 minutes, producers will be able to submit their films online, for films longer than 10 minutes, the applicants will only have to screen the film at the Examining Committee theatre and won’t be required to visit the CBFC Offices except to collect their certificates.
This, the government claims, is the first step toward overhauling the Board. The I & B Ministry had earlier instituted a committee under veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal to recommend changes in the CBFC’s functioning. The committee submitted its report last April, the report of which is yet to be implemented.
“The government will revisit the entire process of film certification and how it can be restructured. We have begun the process of consultations on the Benegal Committee report,” Naidu informed, adding that the government is proactively taking steps to smoothen the permission processes.
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