The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in India has prohibited the release of the internationally acclaimed film “Santosh,” directed by British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suri. The film portrays a young widow who becomes a police officer in northern India and investigates the murder of a Dalit girl. Despite receiving accolades at Cannes and an Oscar nomination, the CBFC cited concerns over the film’s depiction of misogyny, Islamophobia, and violence within the Indian police force as reasons for the ban. Suri expressed disappointment, noting that significant cuts demanded by censors would undermine the film’s integrity. While “Santosh” has been released in UK cinemas, Suri remains hopeful that Indian audiences will eventually have the opportunity to view the film. ​