Censor board divided over list of 'banned words'

As a circular issued by him listing words to be banned in films saw opposition from within the censor board, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) Chairman Pahlaj Nihalani today said it was just a "reminder" to follow existing guidelines.

"The circular is not my guidelines. I just reminded producers and regional offices on guidelines laid by CBFC and government," he said referring to the circular sent out by him to regional CBFC officers and producers' associations.

"If producers feel aggrieved then they should approach the I&B Ministry and get the guidelines changed," he said.

His reaction came as Board member Ashoke Pandit said he was not consulted on the circular and he does not endorse "the list" as a film-maker.

"I as a Filmmaker & #CBFC board member do not endorse the list issued by the Chairperson On words not to be used in films.I ws nt consulted (sic)," Pandit said on Twitter.

"Does the #ChairpersonCBFC endorse other bad words which are not in this list can be used in the films.? If I am portraying the character of Dawood in my film, he will use the language as per his character & not what a saint would use" he said in a series of tweets

Pandit said the list of words 'not to be used in films' issued by the Chairperson "is against the freedom & creative liberty of a filmmaker".

The circular had a list of "objectionable" and "abusive" words which will be banned in films. It even contained word "Bombay" and asked filmmakers to use the word "Mumbai" only.

Nihalani told PTI today that the content of the circular was not his suggestion and it was issued as reminder to producers to follow guidelines laid by the government.

Nihalani said the circular was an internal note. As the CBFC chairman, he said he cannot impose guidelines but only make suggestions.

He also said that 'A certificate' for films is given on the basis of film's theme and not language.

When asked about the matter, Minister of State in the I&B ministry Rajyavardhan Rathore had yesterday said the government does not interfere in the Censor Board's functioning but maintained that he was confident that the "letter is not the end of everything.... it's not the final decision".