Jun 17, 2026 10:30am IST
CBFC Scraps Tatkal Certification Scheme; All Films to Follow Standard Clearance Process
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has officially discontinued its tatkal (priority) certification scheme. The fast-track route, which previously allowed filmmakers to pay a premium fee to expedite censor clearance within 10 to 15 days, is no longer available.
Why was it scrapped?
Introduced in March 2024 as an emergency mechanism for urgent certifications, the tatkal route gradually became the norm rather than the exception. A growing number of producers began opting for the service, often even when there was no pressing need, leading to longer waiting periods for films in the regular certification queue.
At nearly three times the cost of the standard certification process, the scheme was also financially unviable for many producers, particularly small-budget and independent filmmakers. Many within the industry argued that it created an uneven playing field, giving larger productions an advantage while diverting resources away from smaller films.
Standard certification process for all
As of June 1, the CBFC has stopped accepting new applications under the priority route. All films must now go through the standard certification process. However, applications submitted under the tatkal scheme before June 1 will continue to be processed.
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With the discontinuation of the fast-track route, the CBFC is expected to standardize certification timelines for all applicants. The board has assured filmmakers that standard certifications will be issued within a 20-25-day window.
Release delay worries makers
While the move is intended to create a more equitable system, sections of the industry are apprehensive that last-minute certification delays could disrupt carefully planned release schedules. For producers who have already committed to public advertisements, marketing campaigns and release-date-specific promotions, even minor delays could result in logistical and financial setbacks.
The CBFC has indicated that, in cases where release dates have already been publicly announced, it will make every effort to ensure timely certification and minimize avoidable losses. Filmmakers can continue to submit and track their censor certification applications online.
Commenting on the decision to scrap the service, Shashi Shekhar Vempati, Chairman of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), says, "We will take feedback from the industry on processing times and any related challenges. We will reach out to the fraternity over the next several weeks across different regions as part of a broader outreach exercise."
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