Govt Introduces Accessibility Guidelines for Public Exhibition of Feature Films in Cinema Theatres

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 16th March. The Government has officially notified the Guidelines of Accessibility Standards in the Public Exhibition of Feature Films in Cinema Theatres, aimed at ensuring access to films for persons with hearing and visual impairments.

Under the directive, feature films exhibited in cinema halls for commercial purposes are mandated to adhere to these guidelines, with an implementation timeline set for certification in multiple languages within six months and for all other films within two years.

The guidelines stipulate the inclusion of at least one accessibility feature each for the hearing impaired and visually impaired, such as Closed Captioning and Audio Description. These features will be deployed by cinema theatre licensees using customized equipment, mobile apps, or other available technologies during regular screenings.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of inclusivity and empowerment for all citizens, including Divyangjan, is at the forefront of this initiative. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, under the guidance of the Hon’ble Minister for Information and Broadcasting, has championed these accessibility standards to ensure the cinematic experience is accessible to all segments of society.

Crafted in consultation with disability rights groups, cinema exhibitors, and stakeholders, the guidelines represent a significant step towards inclusivity. They aim to eliminate barriers to cinema access for persons with hearing and visual impairments, fostering their integration into mainstream society.

Key features of the Accessibility Standards include:

• Defining general principles for accessibility of feature films.
• Identifying and addressing barriers to accessibility.
• Ensuring access for persons with disabilities to public exhibition of feature films.
• Establishing an institutional framework for oversight and dispute resolution.

The guidelines also prescribe mandatory accessibility features, such as Audio Description and Closed Captioning, along with additional features like Indian Sign Language interpretation.

Furthermore, an implementation schedule has been outlined, with a monitoring committee appointed to oversee compliance and address grievances. Theatre owners are required to develop self-regulatory plans for accessibility within two years.

This initiative aligns with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, emphasizing the government’s commitment to promoting universal access and inclusion in information and communication.

By establishing a robust foundation for accessible feature films and theatre infrastructure, these guidelines pave the way for greater inclusion and participation in the cinematic experience.