Kerala Government Defies Centre, Allows 19 Films to Screen at IFFK Festival

The Kerala government has ordered the 30th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) to proceed with all scheduled screenings, despite the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting's denial of censor exemption clearance to 19 selected films. This decision comes after days of disruption at the state-backed international festival, which has triggered widespread criticism from political leaders and film figures. The Kerala government issued the directive on December 16, 2025, following a meeting with festival organizers. The move aims to ensure the festival's continuity, with all scheduled screenings set to take place as planned. However, the Union Ministry's decision to deny censor exemption clearance to 19 films has sparked controversy, with many arguing that it undermines the festival's curatorial intent. The disruption began on December 10, 2025, when the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting informed festival organizers that it would not grant censor exemption clearance to 19 selected films. The festival's organizers had sought exemptions under the Cinematograph Act, 1952, which allows for the screening of films that may contain content deemed objectionable by the censor board. The immediate impact of the Kerala government's decision is that the festival will proceed as scheduled, with all 19 films set to be screened. However, the controversy surrounding the Union Ministry's decision is likely to continue, with many in the film industry and beyond expressing concerns about the implications for artistic freedom and the festival's integrity. The IFFK has been a prominent platform for filmmakers from across the world, showcasing a diverse range of cinematic works. The festival's programming choices and opening-night events have been deliberately designed to reflect a consciously political tone, sparking debate and discussion among attendees. As the festival continues, it remains to be seen how the controversy surrounding the censor exemption clearance will unfold. The Kerala government's decision to proceed with the festival's screenings has provided a temporary reprieve, but the issue is unlikely to be resolved anytime soon.