Both Orders Refusing Certification For The Film ‘Chardi Kala’ Withdrawn

Both orders one issued by the screening committee on May 26 and the other by the revising committee on July 14 refusing certification for the Punjabi film ‘Chardi Kala’ have been withdrawn. This information was conveyed to the Punjab and Haryana High Court by the Regional Officer of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). While hearing an appeal filed by the owner of ‘Mad4 Films’ (the film’s producer), the High Court observed that these orders were passed by an officer who, at the time, lacked the legal competence to make such a decision.

The Court noted that it was only from August 29, 2026, that the Central Government authorized the CBFC Chairperson to exercise the Board’s powers regarding film certification under Section 7-B of the Act. Therefore, the orders dated May 26 and July 14 had been issued by an “authority lacking jurisdiction.” The High Court has now directed the competent authority to reconsider the matter afresh after granting the appellant a full opportunity to be heard.

Directed by Amarjit Saron, the film ‘Chardikala’ is inspired by the real-life story of Sikh activist Bibi Bimal Kaur Khalsa (wife of Shaheed Bhai Beant Singh, who was involved in the Indira Gandhi assassination case) and garnered significant attention after being screened at the Cannes Film Festival this year. The film was scheduled for release in India on May 29, but the certification process faced hurdles.

The Board had raised objections regarding the film’s sensitive social and political themes, its potential impact on law and order, and the alleged glorification of assassins. The High Court also termed the delay of nearly four months following the application submitted under the priority scheme as deplorable.

On behalf of the Central Government, Additional Solicitor General of India Satya Pal Jain assured that a new inquiry committee would be constituted to examine the film and that further proceedings would be completed in accordance with relevant rules, including Rule 37. The High Court disposed of the appeal after the two controversial orders were withdrawn.