What is FCAT?
- FCAT was a statutory body constituted set up by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in 1983, under Section 5D of the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
- Mandate: Its main job was to hear appeals filed under Section 5C of the Cinematograph Act, by applicants for certification aggrieved by the decision of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
- Members: The tribunal was headed by a chairperson and had four other members, including a Secretary appointed by the Government of India to handle.
- HQ: The Tribunal was headquartered in New Delhi.
What it did?
On several occasions when a filmmaker or producer not satisfied with the CBFC’s certification, or with a denial, appealed to the FCAT. And in many cases, the FCAT has overturned the CBFC decision.
What is its present status?
FCAT has been abolished under the Tribunals Reforms (Rationalisation And Conditions Of Service) Ordinance, 2021, which came into effect on 4th April 2021
Impact
The abolition means filmmakers will now have to approach the High Court with appeals they would have earlier filed with the FCAT.
