In reference to Narendra Modi biopic release delay, Prasoon Joshi speaks up
As told to BOMBAY TIMES (April 8, 2019)

After the Central Board for Film Certification came under scrutiny following the delay in the release of the Vivek Oberoi-starrer PM Narendra Modi because it didn’t have a CBFC certificate, Chairperson Prasoon Joshi has cleared the air regarding the agency’s role in the delay of the film’s release, highlighting concern over “irresponsible statements” made about the CBFC. In a statement, Joshi said, “I am surprised by the irresponsible statements that are being made regarding CBFC. Facts should be checked before making such allegations.”

Stating that he wanted to “bring focus back on facts”, the lyricist explained that it wasn’t the CBFC that was responsible for the film’s release being delayed from its original date of April 5. “We had already stated that the film is yet to be certified and is in the process of certification as per the requisite guidelines. Let this be clear as well that the CBFC’s mandate is to review content as per guidelines, not to look into timing of release of the films. That is the prerogative of the makers,” the statement read.

The film, directed by Omung Kumar, was slated for release on April 5, but had to be postponed as it could not get the CBFC certificate in time. Several news reports at the time said that a film must be submitted 68 days prior to its release date in order to get the certificate. Joshi, however, clarified that this is a misconception as 68 days is the maximum time the CBFC can take to certify a film. He elaborated in the statement, “The period of 68 days is the maximum period within which CBFC has to certify films. However, most of the films, including regional films, are actually certified in a much shorter time than this. Therefore, the impression that is being attempted that every film should take minimum 68 days for its certification is absolutely false and contrary to the basic nature of our organisation, which is expected to facilitate industry within the checks and balances as per the statutory guidelines.”

The CBFC chief maintained that the body had followed “a fair and non-judgemental process” in the film’s certification and he felt compelled to clear the air after conflicting reports. He said, “In keeping with professional ethics a fair and non-judgemental process is followed as per the requisite guidelines in all films that come to CBFC. To the people at large, this clear and clean perspective is required to be given by all responsible organisations, not misinformation to mislead.”