Shyam Benegal panel report: ‘Keep just one anti-smoking warning at start of film’

The panel recently submitted the second part of its report, pertaining to anti-smoking warnings and use of animals in films, to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

On April 26, the panel had handed over the first part of the report which said that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) should restrict itself to being a certification body that only categorises the suitability of the film based on the age group of the viewers.

On the issue of anti-tobacco/ smoking warnings, the report says, “A meaningful static disclaimer in the beginning of the film with standard visual background approved by the Ministry of Health may be shown for a minimum period along with an audio backing it.”

It has also said that the film industry should contribute by producing small films on the issue using popular actors for screening in cinema halls and on TV channels.

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On the issue of obtaining ‘No Objection Certificate’ from the Animal Welfare Board of India for certifying films in which performing animals are used, the panel has said that performing animals must be procured from licensed suppliers.