Film ‘Sahiyah’ censor process sparks controversy:Producer accuses CBFC of delay; Board says 'Priority scheme is over'

The alleged delay in the certification process of the film Sahiya has led its producer-director Sanjay Sharma to question the functioning of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Sharma claims that the film was submitted under the priority category, but the certification process was not completed within the stipulated timeframe. He says the delay is affecting the film’s release plans and causing financial losses to the producers. Notably, Sahiya was shot in Jharkhand’s Netarhat region and stars Neeraj Kabi, Shantanu Maheshwari and Rinku Rajguru in the lead roles. The film’s music features vocals by Sona Mohapatra, Javed Ali, Richa Sharma, Krishna Beura and Swanand Kirkire. The songs have been penned by Sameer Anjaan and Swanand Kirkire. Sanjay Sharma said that according to the rules, upon applying in the immediate category, the film's screening should have happened within a few days, but his film was screened after about a month and a half. He said that during the screening, it was stated that due to the film having a Naxalite background, it would be sent to the review committee. However, Sanjay Sharma says that 'Sahiya' is not a film based on Naxalism, but a family and human love story woven against the backdrop of the jungle. The film does not support or promote any kind of violent ideology or Naxalism. He also claimed that despite more than 10 days having passed since the screening, he has not yet been informed whether the film has been formally sent to the Review Committee or not. Additionally, no final decision has been received regarding the film's certification. Sanjay Sharma said that if the board has any objection to a film, it should be strictly examined according to the rules. However, this process should also be timely, so that producers and directors do not have to face unnecessary delays. He said that such delays not only cause financial loss but also affect the film's release strategy and promotional campaign. Sanjay Sharma said that he has made this film with complete hard work and dedication. Before this, he had made two short films, but 'Sahia' is his first major feature film. He said that when a new producer-director makes a film investing everything they have, and then there are months of delay in the certification process, it is extremely disappointing. Sanjay Sharma expressed confidence that the film would soon receive certification and viewers would be able to watch it. He claimed that 'Sahia' could prove to be one of the most beautiful love stories of this year, as its story presents human relationships amidst forests, rivers, and nature in a very sensitive manner. Meanwhile, to know CBFC's side in this matter, Dainik Bhaskar contacted the concerned official. A mail was received from their side, which reads- Meanwhile, another controversy regarding the film emerged. Filmmaker Avinash Das objected to the film's poster on social media. He claimed that this poster was released incorrectly, without permission, and is controversial. He stated that he alone directed 'Sahiya', but his name was misspelled on the poster and his legal credit was understated. Meanwhile, Avinash Das has issued a public statement claiming that he alone directed the film and is also its co-producer. He alleged that the posters and promotional materials released on social media and trade platforms are incorrect, misleading, and being circulated without his permission. According to Avinash Das, the poster states 'A Film by Sanjay Sharma' and 'Directed by Sanjay Sharma and Abnav Das', whereas the correct credit should be 'A Film by Avinash Das' and 'Directed by Avinash Das'. He also stated that the spelling of his name is incorrect. Avinash Das has filed a formal complaint in this matter with IFTDA, IMPPA, and CBFC.