‘Highway’ starring Alia Bhatt and Randeep Hooda not allowed to air on Doordarshan

Mumbai: Central Board of Film Certification has created a roadblock for yet another film. This time its not a film to be released, but Imtiaz Ali’s 'Highway' starring Randeep Hooda and Alia Bhatt that hit the theatres in 2014. Reportedly, the CBFC has denied a certification for the film to be air on Doordarshan.

Highway tracks the journey of Veera (Alia Bhatt) who despite being abducted by a gang headed by Mahabir Bhati (Randeep Hooda) finds peace in their company.

The film had received a 'U/A' certificate in 2014 but for the film to air on Doordarshan, it needs a ‘U’ certificate. According to a report in Mumbai Mirror, producer Sajid Nadiadwala presented an edited version of the film with no foul language to get the needed certificated but it was rejected to possibly one of the most brainless argument.

Three board members argued that the film touches borders along the topic of child abuse and hence is unsuitable for the family viewing audience of the national channel. The other board members defended it, saying that the film sould be shown as a mean to create more awareness.

Nandini Sen, a senior board member was quoted in the report saying, "I am aghast and shocked. And I'm fighting for it. The film makes a very vital point and children should watch the film to become more conscious about their surroundings, about things like good touch and bad touch.”

Eventually the producer was denied of a certification and it might never be aired on Doordarshan. The solution to this case now rests on the Chairperson of CBFC Pahlaj Nihalani.