CBFC withdraws ban order on ‘Chardikala’ after Punjab & Haryana High Court intervention
PTC Web Desk: The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has withdrawn the orders that had denied certification to the Punjabi film ‘Chardikala’, following proceedings before the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
The CBFC Regional Officer informed the High Court that the May 26, 2026, order of the Examining Committee and the July 14, 2026 order of the Revising Committee had been withdrawn.
The matter will now be considered afresh by the competent authority. The filmmaker will also be given a full opportunity to present its case before a fresh decision is taken.
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The development came during the hearing of an appeal filed by the proprietor of M/s Mad4 Films, challenging the earlier orders refusing certification to the film.
The committees had earlier described the film’s subject as socially and politically sensitive. They had cited concerns related to law and order as well as alleged violations of social norms while refusing to grant certification.
During the hearing, the High Court also examined the issue of whether the authorities that passed the earlier orders had the necessary legal powers.
The court noted that the Central Government had delegated the Board’s powers under Section 7B of the Cinematograph Act, 1952, to the CBFC Chairman with effect from August 29, 2026. It observed that before this delegation, the Chairman or the Regional Officer did not have the required authority to issue such orders.
The court held that the orders dated May 26 and July 14 were passed by an authority lacking jurisdiction and were therefore in violation of Section 4 of the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
The High Court also criticised the authorities for keeping the matter pending for nearly four months without reaching a concrete decision.
Additional Solicitor General Satya Pal Jain, appearing for the Centre, assured the court that a fresh Examining Committee would be constituted and the certification process would be completed in accordance with the rules.
With the earlier orders now withdrawn, the High Court disposed of the appeal.
- PTC NEWS
