Film industry fears uncertainty after 'Tatkal' certification scheme discontinued

Key facts

• The 'Tatkal' or priority certification scheme for films has been discontinued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
• The scheme allowed filmmakers to obtain CBFC certification within 10-15 days by paying a premium.
• The discontinuation could lead to increased delays in film clearances and greater uncertainty for release schedules.
• Independent producers and regional filmmakers have expressed support for the move, citing disruption from larger studios.
• The absence of both the 'Tatkal' scheme and the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal may complicate dispute resolution.

The film industry in India faces potential disruption following the discontinuation of the Central Board of Film Certification's (CBFC) 'Tatkal' or priority certification scheme, effective June 1. Film producers and distributors fear this move will exacerbate existing delays in film clearances and introduce greater uncertainty into release schedules.

The 'Tatkal' scheme previously allowed filmmakers to obtain certification within 10-15 days by paying a premium. Its withdrawal, coupled with the abolition of the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal (FCAT) in 2021, is expected to complicate dispute resolution and make release planning more challenging, according to industry executives.

This change could particularly impact multilingual releases, last-minute edits, and films with tightly scheduled theatrical windows. Suniel Wadhwa, cofounder and director at Karmic Films, noted that independent producers and regional films, which often have compressed timelines and competitive release windows, will be most affected.

However, some industry figures welcomed the discontinuation. Naveen Chandra, founder of 91 Film Studios, stated that the priority system often benefited large studios, disrupting the release plans of smaller producers who finalize theatrical windows months in advance. Chandra also pointed out the logistical impossibility of objectively reviewing the nearly 1,800 films produced annually in India on a 'Tatkal' basis.

Distributors also raised concerns about the practicalities of certifying big-budget films, as Indian filmmakers frequently make reshoots and visual effects adjustments until just days before a film's release.