MUMBAI: Reacting very swiftly to Tamil actor and film-maker Vishal Krishna Reddy better known as Vishal's corruption allegations against the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has ordered a probe into and stated that the strictest action will be taken. 

On Thursday, Vishal released a video on X where he alleges that a staffer at the CBFC in Mumbai asked him for Rs 6.50 lakhs before issuing a censor certificate for the screening and certification of the Hindi version of his Tamil blockbuster 'Mark Antony.' 

According to Vishal, a lady staffer of CBFC called and asked his manager for money, and pretending to be negotiating he recorded the conversation. He even shared the bank transactions as proof of transfer of the amount. 

Vishal’s allegations sparked a response from the government, MIB has said that top officials have been deputed to inquire about the alleged corruption in the CBFC.

Taking to X, MIB wrote, “The issue of corruption in CBFC brought forth by actor Vishal is extremely unfortunate. The Government has zero tolerance for corruption and strictest action will be taken against anyone found involved. A senior officer from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has been deputed to Mumbai to conduct an inquiry today itself.”

Earlier in his post on X on the allegations, Vishal also appealed to Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde and PM Modi to look into the matter. “Never faced this situation ever in my career. Had no option but to pay the concerned mediator #Menaga coz too much at stake since the movie released today. Bringing this to the notice of Hon Chief Minister of Maharashtra and my Hon PM Narendra Modiji. Doing this is not for me but for future producers. NOT HAPPENING. My hard earned money gone for corruption ??? No way. Evidence down for all to hear. Hope truth prevails as always. GB.”