CBFC RO Guwahati issues advisory to citizens and stakeholders regarding Cinematograph Act, 1952

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Regional Office, Guwahati has issued an important advisory to raise public awareness about key provisions and offenses under The Cinematograph Act, 1952, and its associated rules. The advisory underscores the necessity of complying with these laws to ensure a responsible cinematic environment, maintain the integrity of the film industry, and safeguard public order and morality.

As the statutory authority for certifying films for public exhibition in India, the CBFC mandates that all films intended for public viewing must be certified before release. The Regional Office in Guwahati has been entrusted with these responsibilities for the Northeastern states.

The advisory highlights that violations under the Cinematograph Act are considered serious offenses. These include the exhibition of uncertified films, screening content in contravention of its certified category, piracy through unauthorized recording or transmission, and film exhibition without valid licensing. Such offenses are largely cognizable and non-bailable, meaning arrests can be made without a warrant and bail is granted at the court’s discretion.

Penalties under the Act are stringent, including imprisonment for up to three years, fines up to ₹1 lakh or 5% of a film’s audited gross production cost in cases of piracy, and additional daily fines for continuing violations. Furthermore, offending films, along with the equipment used, may be subject to government forfeiture.

The CBFC has urged the public to stay informed about film certifications—such as U, U/A, A, and S—and their implications. Citizens are encouraged to report any violations to local authorities and to actively support the exhibition of legally certified content.

Click here for the detailed advisory dated July 2, 2025.

Pavni Gupta/Sucharita Sahoo