Shutdown in film industry as technicians' strike work

Kochi, June 19 (UNI) Film production in the Kerala industry came to a halt as the Malayalam Cine Technicians' Association (MCTA) today embarked an indefinite strike to press their eight-point charter of demands with the Producers' Association.

Addressing newspersons after a General Body meeting of the MCTA here, its general secretary Vinayan said the shooting of nine films and post-production work of six films were suspended due to the strike.

'' The meeting, which was attended by around 1000 members, decided to continue the strike until the Kerala Film Producers' Association come forward for talks to settle the issues amicably,'' he added.

He said if any producer was willing to accede to the demands, the Assciation would cooperate with him.

On the ban imposed by the Producers' Association on Director Sibi Malayil, Mr Vinayan said his organisation would produce a film, which would be directed by Mr Sibi.

He said the exhibitors association was willing to cooperate with MCTA.

Yesterday, the producers' association kept off the talks with MCTA, which was convened by the Film Chamber.

MCTA's demands include hike in daily allowances for film unit members and drivers, higher stake for scriptwriters in film returns and withdrawal of ban on Director Sibi Malayil.

UNI