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An NGO Friday welcomed the Central Board of Film Certification’s decision to give an ‘A’ certificate to the upcoming movie ‘Heroine’, saying the move will protect young children from getting exposed to tobacco use in the film.

In a letter addressed to CBFC xhairperson, HRIDAY said that CBFC has taken the decision considering that almost 30 percent of the scenes in “Heroine”, directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, depict tobacco use.

The letter says that Bollywood has insurmountable influence on Indians and Indian youth regard actors and actresses as idols they wish to emulate.

“There is strong evidence and a proven link that depiction of tobacco uses in films leaves an adverse impact on the public, especially women and children. Many teenagers light their first cigarette or use their first tobacco product after watching their favourite actor use tobacco on-screen,” it said.

As per the new directions of CBFC, the film will now have to show a statutory warning during every scene depicting tobacco use. (IANS)