Now They Want To Censor Suicide Scenes!

The Censorship Board has been asked to filter suicide scenes in movies as they have a negative impact on viewers, Women, Family and Community Development Deputy Minister Datuk G. Palanivel said Wednesday. "Movies with such story lines and scenes should not be screened on local networks. Such movies may influence people with suicidal tendencies to follow suit."

Palanivel, who is also MIC deputy president, urged religious bodies to instil awareness among the people on why they should refrain from committing suicide. He said the ministry's agencies, relevant non-governmental organisations, psychologists, physiotherapists and counsellors should get together to discuss the subject of suicide and prevention.

**** I have no complaints with the second part of his suggestion, to get the psychology experts into the picture to assist those with suicidal tendencies.

However to totally censor 'suicide scenes' in films is pushing things a bit too far. If this gets through then we will have demands for other 'cuts' in movies. I'm sure that some joker will come out with a statement that all robbery scenes be snipped off to curb the public's tendency to steal. Others will demand that fight scenes be chopped off and yet others that love scenes, disrespect to elders, marital infidelity, high-speed chases, etc. etc. be purged from our already sterile local networks.

I hope that the deputy minister's view is ignored by all especially the Censor Board.