CINEMATOGRAPHY AMENDMENT BILL 2023

1. Context

The Rajya Sabha recently approved the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which brings about significant changes in the film industry. The bill addresses film piracy and introduces new film certification categories, empowering the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue separate certificates for various media platforms.

2. Key provisions of the bill

2.1. Stricter Penalties for Piracy

• The Bill introduces a three-year jail term and fines up to 5% of a movie's production cost for individuals involved in making pirated copies of films.
• This measure aims to curb the rampant issue of unauthorized recording and exhibition of films, which has caused substantial financial losses to the film industry amounting to Rs 20,000 crore annually.

2.2. New Film Certification Categories

• The Bill introduces three certifications under the 'UA' category, namely UA 7+, UA 13+, and UA 16+.
• These certifications allow children below the specified age limits to access films under the 'UA' category with parental guidance, providing a more tailored approach to film viewing.

2.3. Flexibility for Television Exhibition

• Under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, only UA category films can be shown on television.
• The Bill allows films originally categorized as 'A' (adult) or 'S' (specialized groups) to be reclassified under 'UA' after necessary alterations, expanding the range of films available for television exhibition.

2.4. Perpetual Validity of CBFC Certificates

3. Harmonization of Cinematograph Act with Existing Laws

• The Bill aims to harmonize the Cinematograph Act, 1952, with relevant provisions of the Copyright Act, 1957, and the Information Technology Act (IT) 2000, which also address piracy-related matters.
• This alignment strengthens the legal framework against piracy and enhances the industry's ability to combat unauthorized copying and distribution of films.

4. Conclusion

• The Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, represents a significant step towards modernizing film certification processes and combating film piracy.
• By introducing age-based certifications and stricter penalties for piracy, the Bill addresses long-standing concerns of the film industry.
• With perpetual validity of CBFC certificates and a more flexible approach to television exhibition, the new Bill sets the stage for a more dynamic and responsible film ecosystem in India.