New Delhi: The move to control contents of programmes on TV channels got a new twist with Censor Board Chairman Anupam Kher saying today (Nov 30, 2003) Government only wants to censor music videos being aired on channels, leaving other programmes like films and their promos to self-censorship by TV channels.

"As far as I understand, Government has only asked channels to get music videos certified and only those found fit for universal viewing will be aired. It wants the channels to exercise self-regulation as far as films and their promos are concerned."

He said if Government were to mandate that all programming on TV be certified, the Censor Board (now known as Central Board of Film Certification) would be working "more than 16 hours a day! We do not have that kind of infrastructure and I do not think such a move is necessary".

Asked about how would the Government ensure that this code is implemented, Kher said the Censor Board was there only for certifying programmes. "It is the job of the police and the Government to ensure that implementation happens."

PTI