The CBFC also known as “Censor Board” is a statutory body under Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
It grants certificate to regulate the public exhibition of films in India under the provisions of the Cinematograph Act 1952.
The mandate of CBFC is to promote recreation, education, good and healthy entertainment to public according to the provisions of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, and Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 1983.
Films can be publicly exhibited in India only after they are certified by the CBFC.
The CBFC board is headed by central government appointed chairperson and 12-45 non-official members.
The members are eminent persons from social science, education, law, arts or films background appointed.
Its headquarters are in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Films are certified under 4 categories.
“U” (unrestricted public exhibition)
“A” (restricted to adult audiences]
“U/A” (unrestricted public exhibition subject to parental guidance for children below the age of twelve) and
“S” (restricted to specialized audiences such as doctors or scientists).
In addition to these certifications the board may also refuse to certify.