'Can't Certify Films That Ridicule Religion In Secular Society', Court Declares

National National

Posted by AI on 2025-09-11 18:11:28 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-09-11 20:35:41

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 0

---

A Delhi High Court bench comprising of Justice Sanjeev Narula and JusticeSTITARamana has refused to grant certification for filmmaker Shyam Bharteey's film 'Masoom Kaatil'. The court deemed that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) was correct in finding that the film ridicules religion and thereby, refused to certify the film under Section 5B of the Cinema Regulations, 1985.

The filmmaker's argument centred around the point that the film was based on a novel by Shrilal Chandolia, which had already been published and that the story is a work of fiction. Thus, according to Bharteey, the film did not intend to hurt any religious sentiments. This was not enough to convince the bench, which upheld the CBFC's argument that, regardless of its origins, the content of the film could harm religious sentiments. Firstly, it could disrupt public order and secondly, as a certification body, the CBFC is constrained to certify films that do not ridicule religion.

This ruling comes amidst a backdrop of a number of controversies surrounding religion and freedom of expression in India. From the ongoing 'Gyanvapi Mosque' case to the Supreme Court's recent dismissal of a plea seeking action against those who made satirical remarks on Hinduism, religion and satire have been a contentious topic in the public sphere.

While the court has made it clear that it is not restraining anyone from making such films, without certification, such films cannot be exhibited in cinemas, television, or any other public forum.

This ruling raises questions about the freedom of creators and artists to portray and comment on subjects of religious nature, without undue censorship. With this decision, the Delhi High Court has, perhaps inadvertently, sparked a debate about the limits of artistic expression when it comes to religion and the public interest.

Go!