In May 2026, an amendment was made in the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules where the priority scheme for film certification was removed. Three months on, another change has been made to Rule 33 of the Cinematograph (Certification) Rules. Now, filmmakers can no longer make changes to their movie after it has been certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) — a shift from the rule that previously allowed them to make alterations, cuts, or additions after certification, subject to informing the CBFC and obtaining the necessary endorsement.

According to insiders, the change — said to be introduced from August 10 — means makers can no longer reduce their movie’s runtime after it has received certification. A source said, “If a producer feels that the film is running too long and wants to trim a few minutes, that option is no longer available.” The earlier provision could also be used to add subtitles.