India’s film certification board has accepted the recommendations of a government-appointed panel to introduce new movie categories that could potentially end the controversial practice of chopping off scenes or muting words deemed offensive, HT has learnt.

The move has wider implications as it means the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), popularly called the censor board, could now have a limited role to play in editing content of films before issuing certificates for public viewing.

CBFC chairman Pahlaj Nihalani did not respond to calls and messages from HT.

The BJP-led government appointed the panel led by acclaimed filmmaker Shyam Benegal following allegations that the CBFC was stifling artistic freedom under Nihalani.