The Bombay High Court has directed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to screen the upcoming biopic Ajay: The Untold Story of a Yogi, based on Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and deliver its decision within two working days. The court has further instructed that the certification process should proceed immediately based on the outcome of the screening.

Court Steps In After Delay

The directive was issued during a hearing on July 17, following a petition filed by the film’s makers alleging unnecessary delay by the CBFC. According to the producers, despite applying for certification on July 5, the film had not been screened by the board even after several days — a clear violation of CBFC’s own timeline norms.

The makers also stated that they had re-applied under the priority screening scheme on July 3, paid three times the usual fee, and were assured a screening on July 7. However, they claim the screening was abruptly cancelled a day prior without any explanation.

Legal Context

As per CBFC guidelines, films must be screened within seven days of receiving an application. In a prior hearing on July 15, the court had stressed that adherence to statutory timelines is non-negotiable, giving CBFC time to appoint legal counsel. The matter was then listed for further hearing on July 17, where the court issued its present directive.

About the Film

Produced by Samrat Cinematics and directed by Ravindra Gautam, Ajay: The Untold Story of a Yogi is scheduled to release on August 1. The film stars Anant V Joshi in the titular role of Ajay (Yogi Adityanath), with veteran actors Dinesh Lal Yadav and Paresh Rawal in prominent roles.

The film has generated significant public and political interest, given its subject matter and proximity to real-life political developments.

What Happens Next?
CBFC now has two working days to screen the film and provide its decision — a timeline that, if met, should still allow the film to release on schedule. Any further delay or denial of certification could potentially escalate into a broader legal or political controversy.