Nihalani files plea against CBFC for cuts in his film

Mumbai: The former head of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), Pahlaj Nihalani, has filed a petition in the Bombay high court against the CBFC board for ordering multiple cuts in his forthcoming production, Rangeela Raja, featuring actor Govinda. Nihalani has alleged that some people from the CBFC have deliberately hatched a conspiracy against him.

According to Nihalani, CBFC suggested 20 cuts in his film, which were not even required. Accusing CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi of being biased and bending rules to please his friends, Mr Nihalani told the media that his film was reviewed for 40 days after applying for certification. Whereas another film having Mr Joshi’s friends in the industry in lead roles had been sent for certification 20 days after his film but was cleared on a preferential basis.

Mr Nihalani further said that the cuts ordered were absurd. “There is no vulgarity and no double meaning dialogues. Still, I’ve been asked to delete some scenes. Why? Some movies are filled with kissing and lovemaking scenes and are yet passed with a ‘UA’ certificate.”

Nihalani expressed appr-ehension that his film was being made a scapegoat by the CBFC and that he was all set for a legal battle. The petition was filed before the vacation bench of the HC and will be heard in due course. Nihalani alleged that some minister from the Centre used to interfere in his work when he was the CBFC president. “I never took their phone calls therefore most of them were disappointed with me,” he said.