Guwahati, Assam – The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Regional Office in Guwahati has dispatched a crucial letter to the Government of Manipur, stressing the urgent need for stringent enforcement of the Cinematograph Act, 1952. The communication, dated June 23, 2025, from Additional Regional Officer Dipankar Gogoi, IRTS, highlights the imperative for all public exhibitions of films, videos, and related content within the state to adhere strictly to certification norms.
The CBFC, being the sole authority across India for certifying visual content for public viewing, has entrusted its Guwahati office with the oversight of the entire Northeast region, which includes Manipur. Gogoi’s letter explicitly states that no film, video, advertisement, trailer, promo video, song, or any other visual presentation can be publicly screened without prior certification from the CBFC.
In a significant move to curb unauthorized screenings, the official has requested the Manipur Chief Secretary to issue clear directives to all district administrations, ensuring that no uncertified content is exhibited anywhere across the state. The letter further underscores the gravity of violations under the Cinematograph Act, 1952, noting that such breaches are cognizable and non-bailable offenses under Sections 7 and 7A, with provisions for appropriate actions as per the Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973).
Gogoi emphasized the highly beneficial impact of prompt action in this regard. Copies of the vital communication have also been forwarded to the Director of Art and Culture, Government of Manipur, and the Deputy Commissioners of Imphal West and Imphal East, for their immediate attention and necessary follow-up.
While the CBFC acts as the ultimate certifying body, local film organisations like Film Forum Manipur play a vital preliminary role in the certification process. These bodies often act as an initial screening authority for Manipuri films, ensuring they align with cultural sensitivities and legal standards before being submitted for final CBFC certification, thereby streamlining compliance with national guidelines.
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