Sahiya Film Row: Bombay High Court Directs CBFC To Decide By October 27

The Bombay High Court has directed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue its final decision on Sanjay Sharma’s film Sahiya by October 27.

The court will, however, hear the matter again on November 2 to review the Board’s decision.

The CBFC’s counsel told the court that a Revising Committee would be constituted on October 23. Sharma’s legal team objected, arguing that the date did not set a deadline for the final decision.

Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal appeared for Sharma via video conferencing, alongside advocates SM Haider, Abdul Talha, Mohammad Shaz and Surbhi.

Sharma submitted his certification application on May 30, 2026. The film was screened in July and again before a Revising Committee in August.

The CBFC refused certification on August 27, citing concerns over the alleged glorification of violence and anti-social activities.

Sharma maintains that Sahiya is a love story and argues that its message should be assessed in the context of the complete narrative. He further approached the High Court after the refusal delayed the film’s planned release.

Set in Jharkhand, the film follows a newly married couple whose lives become entangled in violence, fear and suspicion. It stars Neeraj Kabi, Shantanu Maheshwari, Rinku Rajguru and Ishtiyak Khan.

Sharma argues that the story explores love, human emotions and the suffering of innocent people caught in violent conflict. He has, however, questioned objections to the film’s portrayal of forests and Adivasi communities and its setting in Jharkhand.

The CBFC’s decision is expected by October 27, with the court scheduled to review the matter on November 2.

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