If the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill 2021 is passed by the Parliament of India, the central government will have the powers to ask the Chairman of CBFC to revise the certification given to a film if it deems fit.

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The Bill lays out certain conditions, which are broad in definition. If the film in question is against the interests of the sovereignty and integrity of India, the CBFC can be made to review it. Also, if it is against friendly relations with foreign states, public order, decency or morality, or is likely to incite the commission of any offence, it can be subjected for review.

It could mean that the CBFC can withdraw the certification for public exhibition, in which case the film might stand prohibited for all practical purposes.

The provisions of the Bill are likely to invite criticism, considering that the CBFC is not going to have the ultimate powers in the new set-up. The government will have revisionary powers.

Movies from time to time court controversies for 'controversial' content. A lot of filmmakers might put curbs on their creativity to avoid being on a collision course with the government if the Bill gets passed in its present form.