New Delhi: Vijay’s final film before politics, Jana Nayagan, faces a major censor roadblock with the CBFC. Producers cry foul over endless delays, sparking a fiery Lok Sabha debate.
As Tamil cinema buzzes, the Ministry reveals shocking stats on certification times and appeals—could this expose deeper flaws in India’s film clearance system?
Lok Sabha response on delays of Jana Nayagana’s release
Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L Murugan addressed Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s question in the Lok Sabha. He revealed that the CBFC now certifies films in an average of 18 days thanks to the Online Certificate System, well under the 48-day limit. Short films get cleared in just 3 days.
Jana Nayagan’s certification battle
Producer KVN Productions submitted H Vinoth’s Vijay starrer Jana Nayagan to the CBFC on December 18. Four days later, the examining committee suggested UA 16+ certification with 14 cuts and modifications. But after no response, the team filed a plea in Madras High Court to speed things up, only to learn it was referred to the revising committee (RC).
Legal tug-of-war continues
A single judge ordered certification, but the CBFC secured a stay from a High Court bench. The producers approached the Supreme Court but were directed back to the HC. The bench heard both sides and remitted it to the single-judge bench—no relief yet. Neither CBFC nor producers confirm RC referral.
Ministry’s key data and clarifications
The Ministry shared stats: since FCAT abolition in 2021, many films went to RC or HC. In 2025, 55 films hit the revising committee. Cuts are suggested only for violations on sovereignty, security, public order, decency, morality, defamation, court contempt, or incitement. Filmmakers can appeal to RC or HC under the Cinematograph Act.
Government’s certification stance
“The Government is committed to maintaining a transparent and accountable certification process, while protecting creative freedom and discharging its obligations under the Cinematograph Act,” the ministry stated. RC acts as a multi-level grievance redressal, with RC reviews within Rule 37(7) timelines of Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 2024.