STARTUP LEGAL17 Sept 2026
Anti-drug warning made part of Centre's film certification guidelines
India's government has updated film certification guidelines. Now, any film showing the use, consumption or trafficking of narcotic drugs must display an anti-drug warning. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting notified this change on September 16 under the Cinematograph Act. Earlier rules only asked the censor board to block scenes that glamorised drug addiction. Filmmakers should plan this warning into their content before certification.
Key Statutory Highlights
- Films showing the consumption, use or trafficking of narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances must now carry an anti-drug warning.
- The prescribed warning reads: "Illicit Narcotics Destroy Health and Guarantees Imprisonment. Say No to Drugs."
- The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting notified the amended guidelines on September 16 under the Cinematograph Act.
Actionable Advice for Taxpayers / Founders:If your film includes scenes involving narcotic drugs, review the updated certification guidelines and plan the required on-screen warning before you apply for certification. For clarity on how it applies to your project, check with a compliance professional.
Statutory Disclaimer: TaxQue Shorts are AI-assisted editorial briefs for compliance awareness. This brief has not passed every source check; confirm the original notification before acting. This does not constitute formal legal or CA counsel.
TaxQue News Desk
Share: