Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
Source: IE
Context: The deadline for public comments on draft accessibility guidelines for movie halls catering to the hearing and visually impaired ends next week.
As per the Census 2011, 2.21% of the total population in India has been marked as ‘disabled’, of which 19 per cent are with disability in seeing, and another 19 per cent are with disability hearing.
What does the guideline include:
| Aspect | Summary |
| Purpose | To ensure accessibility for the hearing and visually impaired individuals in movie halls. |
| Compliance Requirement | Film production houses and movie theatres are mandated to provide dedicated shows or accessibility provisions. |
| Accessibility Features | Audio description – Open/closed captioning – Indian Sign Language Interpretation |
| Producer Requirement | Provide two sets of films for certification: one original, and one with accessibility features. |
| Theater Requirement | Offer dedicated showings with accessibility services – Provide necessary equipment for accessibility during regular screenings |
| Equipment Options for Theaters | Smart glasses for captions – Closed caption stands – Separate small screen for captions – Headphones for audio description |
| Compliance Monitoring | Licensing authorities to monitor accessibility provision. A committee was set up by the I&B Ministry to oversee implementation. |
| Information Publication | CBFC to annually publish accessible services provided in certified feature films. |
The proposal aligns with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and aims to promote universal access to films.
Benefits: The guideline promotes inclusivity and equal access to cultural experiences for individuals with hearing and visual impairments. By mandating accessibility features in movie theatres, the guidelines uphold principles of fairness, dignity, and respect for all members of society.
