Three new film classification categories are proposed to be introduced. In addition to three existing ones — Universal (U), Universal and Adult (U/A) and Adults (A), the I&B ministry plans three additional categories — A+, 12+ and 15 +. The A+ will indicate excessive gore, violence or sleaze; while 15+ and 12+ will aim to cover movies like Delhi Belly, currently rated “adult” due to the abusive language freely used in them.
Sources said the Cinematograph Act might be amended by October this year, after which the new classifications can be enforced. This change was proposed by former Central Board of Film Certification chief Sharmila Tagore during her tenure, but could not be implemented due to delays in amending the Cinematograph Act.
CBFC officials said the film industry had pressed for classification of films along international standards. In several foreign film markets, the classification is specific and caters to each age group separately. “While there is a classification for adult movies, there is also a category for more gory, violent and sleazy films. Hence the need for such detailed classification,” a source pointed out.