Everyone in movie halls

Context

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued draft guidelines aimed at enhancing accessibility standards in the public exhibition of feature films in cinema theatres for persons with hearing and visual impairment. This initiative builds upon the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act of 2016 and seeks to address the longstanding demand for making the movie-going experience more inclusive for the estimated 84 million deaf and hard of hearing individuals and 75 million blind and visually impaired individuals in India.

Efforts Towards Inclusive Cinema Experience

• Inclusive initiative: This initiative builds upon the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act of 2016 and seeks to address the longstanding demand for making the movie-going experience more inclusive for the estimated 84 million deaf and hard of hearing individuals and 75 million blind and visually impaired individuals in India.
• Equal participation: It is a significant step towards ensuring equal participation in recreational activities for persons with disabilities (PwDs).
• Mandates and Encouragements: The draft guidelines mandate producers to provide films with accessibility features for certification by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and encourage theatres to hold special shows for PwDs, along with the use of specialized equipment and mobile apps to enhance accessibility.

Institutional Support and Legal Framework

• Institutional Efforts and Awareness: Institutional efforts, including the formation of a committee by the Supreme Court to make court facilities more disabled-friendly and the release of a handbook to combat stereotypes about PwDs, demonstrate a growing awareness of the need for inclusivity.
• Government Initiatives and Legal Mandates: Recent government initiatives, such as mandating digital offerings to comply with RPwD Act standards, reinforce the commitment to promoting accessibility.
• International Comparisons and Adoption Prospects: Comparisons with international practices, particularly in countries like the UK, highlight the potential for India to adopt similar norms and make accessibility the norm in cinema experiences.

Significance of Inclusive Cinema

• Cultural and Social Importance: Facilitating access to cinema, a cherished art form and significant cultural export, aligns with broader objectives of promoting inclusivity and social integration.
• Contribution to Soft Power and Global Influence: Enhancing accessibility in cinema not only benefits PwDs but also contributes to India's soft power and cultural influence globally.
• Continued Commitment to Inclusivity: Continued efforts towards inclusive cinema experiences reflect a positive trajectory towards building a more equitable and accessible society.