The Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2023 brings forward provisions to address the pressing issue of film piracy, particularly the unauthorized transmission of film copies on the internet. With the proposed introduction of new sections in the Cinematograph Act, the bill seeks to prohibit the unauthorized recording and exhibition of films. Specifically, section 6AA aims to prevent the recording of any part of the film for exclusive usage on the same device. Film piracy will be treated as a punishable offense, carrying a maximum penalty of up to three years of imprisonment or a fine of up to Rs 10 lakhs, or both.
In addition to tackling piracy, the bill aims to overhaul film certification practices. The current 10-year validity period for film certification is set to be replaced with perpetual validity. Moreover, the traditional certification categories ‘U’, ‘A’, and ‘UA’ will be replaced with age-based classifications to provide audiences with more specific information about a film’s content.
Under the proposed age-based certification system, films will be categorized based on the target audience’s age group. The ‘UA’ category will include new classifications such as ‘UA 7+’, ‘UA 13+’, and ‘UA 16+’, allowing filmmakers to address mature themes without the restrictive ‘A’ certificate. This change will offer moviegoers, especially parents, better insights into a film’s suitability for various age groups, enabling them to make more informed decisions about what is appropriate for their children to watch.
The Cinematograph Act, which has its origins dating back to 1918, introduced the concept of film censorship in India to safeguard public morality from objectionable films. With the passage of the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2023, the Indian film industry is set to witness a significant transformation, equipping it to tackle piracy effectively while providing audiences with clearer guidance on film content, ultimately promoting responsible film viewing.
