CBFC Certification Could Become Essential for Direct OTT Releases Amid Satluj Controversy, Says Report
The recent controversy surrounding Diljit Dosanjh’s film Satluj may lead to significant changes in the way films are released on streaming platforms in India. According to a report by India Today, the Indian government is considering making certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) mandatory for films that premiere directly on OTT platforms. This proposal comes in the wake of Satluj being streamed on Zee5 earlier this month without the necessary CBFC certificate.
Legal Implications for Streaming Platforms
The report indicates that screening Satluj without CBFC certification was legally impermissible. Government sources have stated that it is the responsibility of state governments to initiate criminal proceedings if a film is publicly screened without the required certification. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) also holds the authority to direct streaming platforms to remove films that lack certification. This power was reportedly exercised in the case of Satluj.
Furthermore, the government is contemplating whether to take action against Zee5 for allegedly streaming an uncertified version of the film. However, no official decision regarding this matter has been announced yet.
Proposed Changes to OTT Regulations
The Centre is exploring the possibility of requiring all films released directly on OTT platforms to obtain CBFC certification before streaming, similar to the regulations for theatrical releases. If implemented, this proposal would mandate that filmmakers secure a CBFC certificate prior to premiering their films on digital platforms. The government is considering amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules to introduce such a requirement.
This development follows the Centre’s recent directive to state governments to initiate legal action if Satluj is screened publicly without the necessary certification.
Background on the Satluj Controversy
For those unfamiliar with the situation, Satluj is based on the life of human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. The film was originally titled Punjab ’95 and had been submitted to the CBFC for certification several years ago but was never cleared for release in that form. Nearly two years later, Satluj was released on Zee5 on July 3, reportedly without cuts or CBFC certification. The film was removed from the platform just two days later.
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