The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has abolished its expedited 'Tatkal' (Priority) certification scheme, a move that took effect on June 1. This abrupt decision means that no new applications for the fast-track process will be accepted, shifting all film projects back to the standard certification timeline. While applications already submitted under the 'Tatkal' scheme will be processed, the broader implications for timely certification remain a point of contention. The Board's stated aim is to reinforce transparency and uniform timelines for all filmmakers, yet industry observers question whether this will lead to increased struggles for producers trying to secure certificates promptly.
Producers who had advertised release dates and publicity material referencing timely certification are now in a precarious position. The CBFC has indicated that such films will be ensured timely certification, though the precise mechanisms and the capacity for this remain unclear. Previously, the 'Tatkal' scheme, which cost up to three times the regular examination fee, promised certification within 10-15 days, a stark contrast to the official five-day rule for standard processing.
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The 'Tatkal' scheme, introduced to help filmmakers expedite their certification for an additional fee, had become a significant reliance for many, particularly larger production houses. This growing dependency, according to industry insiders, placed increased pressure on the certification system and, crucially, created financial burdens for smaller filmmakers who felt compelled to spend extra for timely release. The discontinuation of this option now raises questions about whether the CBFC possesses the infrastructure to streamline the regular certification process to accommodate the increased volume, or if producers will face prolonged delays.
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The abolition is seen by some as an opportunity to foster a more equitable system. The 'Tatkal' option, while intended for urgent cases, often disproportionately benefited "monied producers" and big-ticket films, sometimes at the expense of independent and smaller filmmakers. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting's decision appears geared towards dismantling this perceived imbalance, aiming for a "first come, first serve" basis as per existing rules, while also proposing the removal of provisions allowing Regional Officers to alter the examination order based on priority applications.
