Filmmaker Honey Trehan has publicly criticised the latest guidelines issued by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), raising concerns about their possible impact on creative freedom and the filmmaking process.
The director shared his objections after the certification body introduced a fresh advisory outlining changes to its film certification procedures. His reaction has brought renewed attention to the ongoing discussion around film censorship and the relationship between filmmakers and certification authorities.
New CBFC Advisory Introduces Five Directives
The newly issued advisory outlines five directives concerning the submission and examination of films.
One of its key points states that incomplete film projects will not be accepted for certification. The board has also clarified that previously announced release dates and promotional titles will not automatically determine certification decisions.
Film titles may still be examined and modified by the examining or revising committee during the certification process.
Honey Trehan Expresses Disagreement
Trehan expressed strong disagreement with the new guidelines through his social media account. He questioned whether the revised approach supported democratic principles and freedom of expression.
His response has brought attention to the concerns filmmakers may have regarding the certification process, particularly when creative projects face prolonged delays or changes.
Earlier Controversy Surrounding Satluj
The director’s reaction also comes against the background of his film Satluj, which previously faced a lengthy certification dispute.
The project, initially titled Punjab ’95, is based on the life of Sikh human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra. The film eventually appeared on ZEE5 in July but was removed from the streaming platform within a short period following government concerns related to national security.
The controversy surrounding the film had already attracted considerable attention within the entertainment industry.
Debate Over Film Certification Continues
The latest advisory has once again brought the relationship between creative expression and film certification into focus.
While certification authorities establish guidelines for films released to the public, filmmakers continue to seek clarity and consistency in the process.
Trehan’s response adds another voice to the ongoing industry discussion about how certification rules should operate while respecting creative expression.
