To avoid leaks, CBFC asks filmmakers to submit password-protected digital prints

After recent accusations that it was the source of illegal online releases of the films Udta Punjab and Great Grand Masti, the Central Board of Film Certification has asked filmmakers to submit only password-protected digital prints when they apply for certification.

Udta Punjab and Great Grand Masti had both been released online before their official on-screen releases, bearing the 'censor copy' watermark and time logs, which suggested that the films had been released by CBFC employees after they were submitted for certification, says The Telegraph.

"Neither of the two films has been leaked from our office and, even if they had censor copies written on them, it is possible that somebody from the producers' team leaked them," said Pahlaj Nihalani, CBFC chairman. "However, to make sure that fingers are not pointed at us in such cases, we have decided that we will make changes in film submission rules."

Filmmakers seeking certification will now have to submit their movies in password-protected digital formats that can be opened only by the producers.

"This way, at the time of screening, the film will be opened by the filmmakers and we will not keep a copy of the film in our possession," said Nihalani. "A copy of the film, with suggested changes, may be later given to the board for the record on the day of its release. This way, there will not be any possibility for anyone to claim that a film has been leaked from our office."