NEW DELHI: Even as the government says that the independence of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is guaranteed in the Cinematograph Act, 1952 and it will not interfere in its working, the CBFC is totally dependent on the Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry as far as its budget goes.

The I&B Ministry provides funds to the Board under Non-Plan and Plan allocations.

During 2014-15, the CBFC’S Non-Plan estimated budget allocation was Rs 7.01 crore, which was revised to Rs 7.12 crore. The estimated Plan allocation was Rs 2 crore, which was revised to Rs 70 lakh.

With the recent differences between CBFC members and its chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani, the members are looking at the Ministry for help as they and the chairperson are appointed Section 3 of the Cinematograph Act, 1952.

Interestingly, the Section also says in clause (3) that the other terms and conditions of service of the members of the Board shall be such as may be prescribed. 

The other sections are clear that the Board will consist of a chairman and not less than 12 and not more than 25 other members appointed by the Central Government.

Furthermore, the Section says, “Chairman of the Board shall receive such salary and allowances as may be determined by the Central Government, and the other members shall receive such allowances or fees for attending the meetings of the Board as may be prescribed.”