19 hours ago
Censor board's ban on JSK an attack on creative freedom: Saji Cherian
Minister for Culture Saji Cherian has criticised the Central Board of Film Certifications' (CBFC) decision to deny screening permission for the film JSK-Janaki vs State of Kerala, starring Union Minister and actor Suresh Gopi, calling it a blatant infringement on freedom of expression.
Interacting with mediapersons here on Tuesday, Mr. Cherian said, 'If this is the plight of a film featuring a Union Minister, what can common artists expect?' He said the government stands firmly with those in the film industry and creative fields and will extend all necessary support.
'A denial of certification merely based on a film's title is an unjustified overreach and cannot be accepted,' the Minister said. He drew parallels to the earlier censorship issues faced by Empuraan, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran. Scenes from the film were removed and raids were conducted at the offices of the makers. 'But the people of Kerala wholeheartedly accepted the film,' he said.
Mr. Cherian reaffirmed that the Constitution guarantees every citizen the democratic right to enjoy cinema, literature, music, and food choices. 'Any form of encroachment on these rights are unacceptable. We are committed to ensuring a supportive environment for artists to work freely,' he said.
He said that the Kerala government will continue to uphold the spirit of artistic liberty and stand as a barrier against censorship and intolerance.
