The recent revision of the government grant policy for filmmakers, specifically Section 6.5, has sparked significant controversy. This clause mandates that filmmakers must deposit 10 percent of their proposed film budget into a bank account to qualify for a grant. The requirement has been met with strong opposition, prompting 119 filmmakers and industry professionals to issue a joint statement on April 21, voicing their collective disapproval..

Responding to the protest, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting released a notification on April 23 announcing the suspension of this requirement.

The notice, signed by Senior Assistant Secretary Mosammat Sharmin Akhter, clarified that applicants are no longer required to provide proof of financial capacity—specifically, the certification that 10 percent of the proposed budget is deposited in their bank account, as stated in clause 8(g) of the February 27, 2025 notice. All other conditions remain unchanged.

In their April 21 statement, issued through the Communication Wing of the Film Reform Roadmap 2024, filmmakers highlighted that such financial proof was an unrealistic burden for small-scale, emerging, or marginalised creators. Many talented individuals with strong scripts were unable to apply due to financial limitations.

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The ministry also extended the submission deadline for story and screenplay proposals, alongside the suspension of the financial requirement. Previously set for April 22, the new deadline is April 27. For the 2024–25 fiscal year, the government plans to fund a total of 32 films—up to 12 full-length and 20 short films.