Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
The Cinematograph Act, 1952, is a cornerstone of Indian law, designed to regulate the certification and exhibition of films. It establishes a framework for film censorship, licensing of cinemas, and penalizes violations. The Act ensures that films are suitable for public viewing, adhering to standards of public order and morality, and prevents unauthorized exhibition.
1: Act Background and ministry under which this act is:
The Cinematograph Act, 1952, was enacted to provide a legal framework for the certification of films intended for public exhibition and to regulate their exhibition through cinematographs. This act comes under the purview of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.
2: Enactment date, number of chapters, number of sections:
The Act was enacted on 21st March 1952. It is divided into four parts and consists of 18 sections.
3: Act Governed By:
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is the primary body governing the Act, responsible for certifying films for public exhibition. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting oversees the implementation of the Act. State governments and local authorities are also involved in the licensing and regulation of film exhibitions.
4: On Whom it is applicable:
The Act applies to all individuals and entities involved in the production, distribution, and exhibition of films in India. This includes film producers, distributors, exhibitors, cinema hall owners, and any person involved in the process of exhibiting films to the public.
5: Penalties/Punishments:
The Act specifies penalties for various offenses, including:
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Exhibiting films without certification.
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Altering or tampering with certified films.
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Exhibiting films without displaying the Board’s mark.
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Exhibiting films certified for adults to minors.
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Non-compliance with government or board orders.
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Unauthorized recording and exhibition of films.
Penalties range from monetary fines to imprisonment, depending on the nature and severity of the offense.
6: Important Pointers:
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The Act establishes the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for film certification.
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It sets guidelines for certifying films, ensuring they do not violate public order or morality.
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It provides for different types of certificates: “U” (Unrestricted Public Exhibition), “UA” (Unrestricted Public Exhibition with parental guidance for children below 12), “A” (Adults Only), and “S” (Restricted to a specific class of persons).
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It regulates the licensing of cinema halls and the exhibition of films.
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It empowers authorities to take action against those who violate its provisions.
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The Act includes provisions for appeals against CBFC decisions.
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It also addresses issues related to unauthorized recording and exhibition of films.
7: Act Copy: