IDSFFK film censorship dispute in India

The 18th International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK), scheduled for late September 2026, has faced uncertainty regarding the censorship status of several films. Initial reports indicated that 31 films were denied exemptions from the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, a situation described by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor as an ‘assault on the freedom of expression.’

Kerala Cultural Affairs Minister P. C. Vishnunath noted that while most of the 347 submitted films were cleared, the ministry had neither approved nor formally rejected the remaining 31 entries, including notable works such as ‘Parliament Street’ and ‘Birds of War.’

The Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting later clarified that no films had been denied permission. The Ministry stated that 32 films are currently under review or awaiting further action. These include 20 films referred to the Ministry of External Affairs for no-objection certificates, four to the Ministry of Home Affairs, one to the Ministry of Defence, and one to the Central Board of Film Certification for clarification, while six others require more detailed synopses and screeners.