Delhi High Court Asks Centre and CBFC to Consider Mandatory Accessibility Features in Films

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has asked the Union government and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to examine steps that would make films more accessible for persons with disabilities.
The direction came during the hearing of a petition filed by advocate and disability rights activist Rahul Bajaj, who is visually impaired. The plea raised concerns about the limited availability of accessibility features such as audio descriptions and captions in films screened in theatres.

According to the petition, many movie releases do not include facilities that enable persons with visual or hearing impairments to fully experience cinema. The petitioner highlighted that accessible versions of certain recent films were available in only a small number of theatres, making it difficult for disabled viewers to watch them independently.

While considering the issue, the Court asked the Central government and relevant authorities to review the suggestions made in the petition and determine how accessibility in films can be improved.
The proposals discussed include incorporating same-language subtitles, closed captions for hearing-impaired viewers, and audio descriptions for persons with visual impairments. The Court also suggested that film producers may be required to specify the availability of these accessibility features when seeking certification from the CBFC.

In addition, the Court indicated that information regarding accessibility features in certified films could be displayed on the CBFC’s official website so that viewers can easily identify accessible screenings.
The matter will be taken up again after the authorities consider the proposals and inform the Court about the measures that may be adopted to enhance accessibility in cinema.

Discription: The Delhi High Court has asked the Union government and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to consider measures that would improve accessibility in films for persons with disabilities. The direction came while hearing a petition filed by advocate and disability rights activist Rahul Bajaj, who is visually impaired. The plea raised concerns about the lack of accessibility features such as audio descriptions for visually impaired viewers and closed captions for persons with hearing impairments in many films released in theatres. The Court observed that cinema should be accessible to everyone and asked authorities to examine suggestions aimed at improving inclusivity. These suggestions include providing same-language subtitles, closed captions, and audio descriptions in films. The Court also indicated that producers could be required to mention the availability of such features while applying for film certification from the CBFC. The matter will be considered further after the government reviews the proposals.