Nihalani is a Hindi filmmaker who has made films like Gunahon Ka Faisla (1988), Ilzam (1986), Aag Hi Aag (1987). He has also produced films, and is known for effectively launching the careers of David Dhawan and Govinda through “Aankhen” in 1993. Nihalani’s appointment comes at a time when the CBFC popularly referred to as the Censor Board is hit by controversy.
Leela Samson, the previous Chairperson, and 12 other board members resigned last week following a row over the fast clearance given by the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal (FCAT) for the release of the film Messenger of God, featuring Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh. MSG had first been rejected by the reviewing committee of the Censor Board on the grounds that the movie promotes superstition and blind belief.
Samson had cited “interference, coercion and corruption of panel members and officers of the organization who are appointed by the ministry” as reasons for her resignation.
Soon after he was appointed to the position, Nihalani said, “Narendra Modi is my action hero. I am proudly saying I am a BJP person.” He also added that he does not see any problem with appointing people from the BJP itself now that the party is in power.
But the most worrying thing for the film industry would be his comments on socio-political films. “PK and other movies, they were cleared by a UPA government’s nominee. They have started creating the problem. Producers should not make controversial movies. Then, there will be no controversy in clearing the movie also,” he said.
The CBFC is a body that is used to controversy. Earlier in 2014, its CEO Rajesh Kumar was arrested for allegedly demanding Rs 70,000 for clearing a regional film. Film producers from around the country have been at the Board’s mercy over the years. The system of political appointees is also not new to the CBFC. In 2004, the then-Chairperson Anupam Kher was replaced before the end of his tenure by Sharmila Tagore when the UPA1 government came to power.
Support Newslaundry. Pay to keep news free and independent.
Disclaimer : The information, ideas or opinions appearing in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the views of Newslaundry.com. Newslaundry.com does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same. If the article carries photographs or images, we do not vouch for their authenticity.