Govt working to reform film certification process to limit use

The government is working to reform the film certification process so that the use of scissors is limited as much as possible, Minister of State for I&B Rajyavardhan Rathore today said.
Speaking at an event organised by the CII, Rathore, however, added there will be restrictions as anything that "you can't speak off camera, you can't speak on the camera."
Later, speaking to reporters, Rathore said the government is clear that freedom of expression must be encouraged and any restrictions should be in line with the Constitution.
Speaking at the event, Rathore said news innovations, disruptions in the media and entertainment sector are happening at a fast pace and there is a need to bring a change in rules.

He, however, added it can be done only after wider consultation so that there is a well thought out policy and no knee-jerk reaction.
Speaking about the online media, he said the rules which are there for broadcast and print media are not applicable to it, which is an aspect that needs to be looked into.

Referring to the broadcasting sector, he said there are a "mindboggling" 881 channels, including 349 in the news category, and more are coming up.
He also said as channels compete for ratings, it is important that news should be just news and is not created.

Rathore also said there are very few players in the DTH sector and the I&B ministry is soon going to bring in a new policy to help it spread.
Responding to a question on Prasar Bharati, Rathore said while there is a need to improve its content and marketing, it is not fair to compare the public broadcaster with private channels.
He also said the government is planning a Centre of Excellence in animation and visual effects in Mumbai.
Later on, replying to a question on Pakistan's role in the Uri attack, Rathore said the world believes India as it always presents evidence to support its case.

To a question on controversy about filmmaker Karan Johar being asked to contribute to the Army Welfare fund, Rathore only said that these contributions are voluntary.