The Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023: A Brief Overview

Introduction

On July 31, 2023, the Parliament of India, gave green light to the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (the "Bill") to amend the Cinematograph Act, 1952 (the "Act") and the Bill received the President's assent on August 4, 2023. The Cinematograph (Amendment) Act, 2023 (the "Amendment Act") has been passed after numerous versions and revisions of the draft bill, bringing long sought respite to film producers in the country. The primary objective to amend the Act is to tackle the long-standing issue of film piracy. Additionally, certain other provisions relating to age ratings for movies, perpetual film certifications, and the revisional powers of the central government have been introduced by way of the Amendment Act. This Article seeks to highlight some of the important provisions of the Amendment Act.