The newly-formed Bangladesh Film Certification Board has officially started its work by reviewing two films. This board was created after the long-standing "Censor Board" system for local films was dissolved.
On Monday, the board members watched the films ‘Bhayal’ and ‘Rajkumari’. The Certification Board is tasked with reviewing films before their release. Khijir Hayat Khan, a member of the board and a well-known film director, confirmed the news to the media. He mentioned, "Our work is challenging, and it will take time to reform the rules to make them more friendly for filmmakers. However, we are making sure films can be released regularly in cinemas for now."
The government decided to form the Bangladesh Film Certification Board in response to repeated calls from the film industry to eliminate the Censor Board. A gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on 22 September revealed the details of the new 15-member board.
The Certification Board includes notable members such as actress and activist Quazi Nawshaba Ahmed, filmmaker Khijir Hayat Khan, film academician Zakir Hossain Raju, and screenwriter Tasmiah Afrin Mou. Other members include filmmakers, government officials, and representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Law and Justice Division, and the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation.
The formation of the Certification Board is expected to bring positive changes to the film industry, making it easier for films to get certified and released in local cinemas.
