PNS|Vijayawada
Andhra Pradesh Cinematography and Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh has instructed the State Home Department to investigate the decision by certain exhibitors to shut down cinema halls from June 1. The minister emphasised the need to identify the individuals or groups responsible for this controversial move.
The directive comes amid reports that a group of four individuals is allegedly pressuring exhibitors to close theatres ahead of the release of the highly anticipated film Hari Hara Veera Mallu. Alarmed by what appears to be a deliberate attempt to disrupt the industry, Minister Durgesh discussed the issue with Home Department Chief Secretary Kumar Vishwajeet.
The minister voiced concern over a possible cartel among exhibitors and distributors, aimed at influencing film releases and taking arbitrary decisions that could undermine the state’s cinema sector.
He called for a thorough probe into whether these entities are acting in concert to manipulate the industry.
Durgesh also directed officials to gather data on the number of films potentially affected by the shutdown and the estimated loss in tax revenue for the state. The government seeks to assess the broader economic and cultural implications of such an abrupt closure.
The investigation is expected to uncover the motives behind the exhibitors’ decision and examine its legality, including any violations of industry norms or state regulations.
