Kapil Sibal Criticizes Censor Boards Decision on Sahiya, Calls for Recognition Instead of Banning

New Delhi, September 14 (Daily Kiran) : Senior advocate and former Union Minister Kapil Sibal has expressed his astonishment at the censor board’s decision to deny certification to the film ‘Sahiya.’ After viewing the film, Sibal praised its quality and emphasized that there is nothing objectionable that warrants a ban. He believes the film deserves awards rather than censorship.

Sibal stated, “I am surprised that the censor board refused to grant a certificate to such a film. We will take this matter to court and fight legally for its release. Is the film being targeted because of its association with ‘4 PM’?” He raised concerns about the government’s direction, suggesting that it poses a threat to democratic values. “The atmosphere in the country is changing, but the government may not yet realize it,” he added.

He further explained, “The film does not promote violence; instead, it tells the story of an ordinary person caught in violence and his love. If there are specific objectionable parts, they should be clearly identified. The film is so well-made that the government should honor it rather than suppress it.”

The producers of ‘Sahiya’ are also questioning the censor board’s procedures. According to them, they submitted their final appeal on August 23. The board was supposed to respond within five days, yet nearly 22 days have passed without clarification on whether the film was reviewed again or what the board’s decision will be.

The controversy began when the censor board’s revising committee denied certification on August 27, 2026. Producer Sanjay Sharma mentioned that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) claimed the film was linked to Naxalism, which complicated its approval.

Sharma recalled a conversation with a senior censor board official who suggested that if the film had been shot in Uttar Pradesh, it would have received certification. “I was shocked by this statement. How can the location of the shoot change the film’s meaning? If the story remains the same, why should filming in Jharkhand or Chhattisgarh raise questions while filming in Uttar Pradesh does not?” he questioned. He expressed concern that such thinking could discourage filming in tribal areas altogether.