An Oscar-nominated film based on the death of a young girl during the Gaza conflict has reportedly been denied certification in India, triggering fresh concerns over censorship and freedom of expression.

‘The Voice of Hind Rajab’, a Tunisian-produced film, has been “orally rejected” by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), according to its India distributor Manoj Nandwana. The development was first reported by Variety on March 19, 2026.

Nandwana said he had anticipated the decision, pointing out that the film had already struggled to secure approvals for screenings at several Indian film festivals over the past year. He also revealed that the rejection was not provided in writing, unlike previous cases where the CBFC cited specific concerns.

The film, which centres on the killing of a five-year-old girl during the 2024 Gaza war, has faced hurdles in India despite gaining international attention and awards recognition.

It was denied screening at major events such as the International Film Festival of India (Goa) and the Bengaluru International Film Festival, though it was screened at the Kolkata International Film Festival.

Nandwana, who acquired the film’s rights before its Oscar nomination, said he does not plan to challenge the decision legally. He also noted that the film’s rights were not insured against such a ban, leaving its producers surprised by the development.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the CBFC have not officially commented on the matter.

The reported ban has drawn political reactions, with Congress MP Shashi Tharoor calling the move “disgraceful.” He argued that restricting a film’s screening undermines freedom of expression and should not be influenced by diplomatic sensitivities.

The controversy comes amid ongoing debates over film censorship in India, particularly concerning politically sensitive themes and real-world conflicts.