Kerala: MACTA calls for indefinite strike from Jun 15

Kochi, May 31: Following Kerala Film Producers Association's decision to suspend film production, the MACTA (Malayalam Cine Technicians' Association) Federation has called for an indefinite strike from June 15.

Speaking to reporters here yesterday, MACTA General Secretary and noted film Director Vinayan said the Federation would go on an indefinite strike if the eight-point demand charter put forward by them was not met by the producers by June 10.

Mr Vinayan said among other demands, the producers should lift the ban imposed on Director Sibi Malayil and quash the suspensions of MACTA members Thampi Kannathanam and Baiju Kottarakara.

He said the producers should also increase the allowance for light boys and drivers.

''All production and post-production activities will be suspended if the producers did not meet our demands,'' he said.

Meanwhile, a joint meeting of the Kerala Exhibitors Federation, Film Distributors Association, Kerala Film Producers Association yesterday dismissed the demands raised by MACTA.

However, the joint council expressed its willingness for talks with MACTA to resolve the crisis.

The Producers Association announced, on Tuesday, its decision to suspend film production from July 31 due to the escalating cost of production.

UNI