Bombay High Court overrules CBFC, clears 'Udta Punjab' for release with single cut

The Bombay High Court on Monday delivered its verdict on the much-hyped 'Udta Punjab' controversy. As per ANI, the bench has asked Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue a fresh certificate to the Abhishek Chaubey directorial in two days.

CBFC's demand for a stay has been refused by the High Court.

Latest reports claim that the number of cuts have been reduced to one (urination scene) from 89. It is considered to be a huge win for the filmmakers.

As per ANI, the court observed that, “There is no mention of the word 'censor' in board. Board should use its powers as per Constitution and SC's directions.”

“Suggest cuts, dont censor. CBFC is not empowered to censor,” Times Now quoted Bombay HC as saying.

"Creative freedom shouldn't be unnecessarily curbed Nobody can dictate to a filmmaker about the content of his film. We don't find anything in the film that shows Punjab in bad light or affects sovereignty or integrity of India as claimed by CBFC," the media house further quoted Bombay High Court as saying.

Talking about the cuts, the bench said, “As far as cut number five suggested by CBFC is concerned, there are some abusive words and some abusive words need to be deleted. We are not in agreement that in some films cuss words have been allowed so these should be allowed here too. There is no need to assert or incorporate abusive words in every dialogue. Cut number six are general words (MP, MLA, Parliament etc). These don't refer to any outfit but reflect for general political work. Cut suggestion number eight not necessary. Only one close up scene of injecting drug will not violate the mandate.”  

Information and broadcasting Minister Arun Jaitley had last week said the film certification norms will have to be liberal and 'some very radical changes' will be announced over the next few days.

After much controversy the CBFC on Sunday gave the nod to Bollywood film 'Udta Punjab' with 'A' certificate.

The movie created a major controversy after it ran into trouble with the CBFC, with officials reportedly demanding 89 cuts in it and the removal of the word 'Punjab' from the title.

(With ANI inputs)