Aug 09 2021 to Aug 09 2021 6 p.m.

EVENT HAS ENDED

Where

Bangalore International Centre

7 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur 560071

Event Description

With Anand Patwardhan, Archana Padmini, Sumana Kittur, Vijay Krishna Acharya and Lawrence Liang

With India's track record with media and press freedom plummeting, the latest amendments proposed to the Cinematograph Act, 1952 has been cause for concern amongst filmmakers regarding the autonomy of the media of film and its censorship by the government— the amendments propose changes that threaten to take away the autonomy of the CBFC and filmmakers.

This comes in close succession with the abolishment of the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal in April 2021.

In addition to providing a basic context and 101 to understanding the issue, providing illustrative examples, the panel will attempt to respond to some questions: What are the implications of the proposed amendment and the abolishment of FCAT? Did the FCAT serve as an effective mechanism for filmmakers dissatisfied with the decision of the Board of film certification? Should the FCAT be reinstated?

While the very existence of film censorship is itself odious to many of us, filmmakers have also learnt to use the censor certificate strategically to assert their right to screen films, and also to demand protection for such screenings in the event that there is any threat of disruption or subsequent legal action. Do the proposed amendments override due process as it exists within the certification process? Do the proposed amendments allow the government to supersede an expert committee performing quasi judicial functions?

Do the proposed amendments potentially violate the constitution, and if challenged, what would a possible outcome be?

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