State seeks ban on alcohol,smoking scenes in films

“Several rounds of discussions have taken place in committees headed by the Chief Minister and the social justice and de-addiction activities minister on the need to prevent depiction of smoking and drinking in films.

“It has been decided to write to the Centre to amend censorship laws to ban such scenes. If a film’s plot requires such scenes,cigarette and alcohol should be blurred or edited,” he said.

Filmmakers gave only a caution note when smoking scenes are shown,the minister said,adding,“Censor Board can also enforce smoking ban,but it is unable to do much because it says the government should amend laws first.”

Ahir said 80 per cent of Marathi films received grants from the state government.

“We are asking the culture affairs ministry,which provides the grants,to make it mandatory for filmmakers seeking finance to ensure they do not have smoking and drinking scenes in their movies,” he said.

The government decision to increase the legal age for drinking was correct despite criticism,Ahir said.