The Kerala state government has announced that the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has withheld screening approval for 31 films slated for the 18th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala. State Culture Minister PC Vishnunadh stated that the central authorities provided no explanation for the decision, despite the state submitting requested synopses for the selected works. While films at this festival typically do not require Central Board of Film Certification clearance, they still need federal permission to be screened. The Kerala State Chalachitra Akademi has formally requested an exemption for these films, which include documentaries on sanitation workers, life in Gaza, and tribal communities. The state government is currently awaiting a response from the ministry, noting that similar issues occurred during the previous year's festival when the state proceeded to screen films despite lacking central exemptions.
Source : Hindustan Times
Photo : Hindustan Times
