Kher plans snips on adult trailers, okays news clips

It's not just the BJP and the Shiv Sena who are frothing at the contents of Girlfriend. Censor Board chairman Anupam Kher, disappointed at t...

It’s not just the BJP and the Shiv Sena who are frothing at the contents of Girlfriend. Censor Board chairman Anupam Kher, disappointed at the general adult content on channels beamed into homes, has shot off letters to channels asking them to get promos of adult movies certified before airing them.

‘‘I have sent letters to broadcasters reminding them that certification of movies before their exhibition in homes is part and parcel of the Cable Act and the Cinematography Act,’’ Kher said.

‘‘Three months ago, there was a move to certify films before broadcasting them. While that was not possible, the channels promised self-censorship. I am only asking them to get the trailers of adult movies certified before showing them on prime-time or otherwise. I have also reminded the channels to get music videos certified,’’ he said.

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While this may seem like music to the BJP’s ears, Kher has ruled out a review of Girlfriend, saying the decision of the Board is final. Kher has also reminded the BJP that the members were appointed by the BJP. ‘‘No political party can ask for a review,’’ said Kher.

While Kher is annoyed at ‘‘adult content on channels’’, other members of his board complained about the adult content on news channels, shown on prime-time news.

Specifically, the airing of select clips from Girlfriend on prime-time and non-prime time news, has prompted the Board to complain to the I&B Ministry. ‘‘Scenes from adult films should not be shown out of context on news channels,’’ the officials said.

Kher, on the other hand, says the news channels are in the business of disseminating news and information and controversial movies are part of the package. ‘‘I’ve nothing against the news channels,’’ he adds.