Movies to get age-based certification from the CBFC! – New regulations

Censorship is an essential part of the film industry. The respective censor boards regulate the content that is suitable for the respective age groups. Currently, the Central Bureau of Film Certification (CBFC) in India rate the movies under three categories: U, U/A and A in general.

While a ‘U’ certified film can be watched by audiences of any age group without any restrictions, a ‘U/A’ can be consumed by everyone but children should watch those films with the guidance of their parents. Movies certified ‘A’ by CBFC must be watched only by people above the age of 18 (adults).

Now, The Union Cabinet has accepted the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s request to introduce the Cinematograph Amendment Bill, 2023. Henceforth, movies will be rated under five categories according to age. The five new classifications are U, U/A 7+, U/A 13+, U/A 16+, and A. The new classifications refer to:

1) U-rated films can be watched by everyone.
2) U/A 7+ rated films can be watched by people above the age of 7.
3) U/A 13+ rated films can be watched by people above the age of 13.
4) U/A 16+ rated films can be watched by people above the age of 16.
5) A-rated films can be watched by people above the age of 18.