Union I&B clears 23 of the 31 films at IDSFFK which were earlier denied censor exemption
The Indian Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has cleared 23 of 31 films previously denied screening permission for the International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Keralam. The decision follows legal pressure from the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, though eight films remain under review.
Why it matters
The case highlights ongoing tensions regarding censorship and artistic freedom in film festivals within India.
The Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Saturday (September 26, 2026) granted permission for the screening of 23 films out of the 31 that had been selected for the 18th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Keralam (IDSFFK) but were initially denied clearance.
The Kerala High Court had issued a notice to the Ministry following legal action initiated by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, which demanded screening permission for all 31 films. The Court is scheduled to hear arguments regarding the case on Saturday (September 26, 2026).
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