Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy reiterates that he would not allow benefit shows in the state. While speaking to leading film personalities, the Chief Minister has reminded them of their social responsibility and maintaining law and order. He has also appealed to the film industry to actively participate in Telangana's development.
Meeting Highlights with Film Luminaries
A delegation of about 50 members from the industry, spearheaded by FDC chairman Dil Raju, made a visit to the Police Command Control Center, Banjara Hills, and met with the Chief Minister. The meeting was given importance amid the stampede incident which occurred at Sandhya Theatre and its subsequent controversies over the arrest of Allu Arjun. To start with the session, CM Revanth Reddy presented the video detailing the stampede incident. Several film personalities spoke their minds, and the CM articulated the government's stand.
CM's Statement: Focus on Accountability
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy addressed the burning issues at the meeting.
- Social Accountability: The industry should actively engage in promoting social cause activities such as drug control and women's safety. Promotion of temple tourism and ecotourism was welcomed.
- Benefit Shows: The CM outrightly mentioned that the benefit shows will not be permitted, just like what he had said in his assembly declaration earlier.
- Regulation of Bouncers: The government would impose stricter measures in the use of bouncers for safety measures.
- Investment Opportunities: He called upon the industry to support development schemes with investments in Telangana.
"There cannot be any compromise on law and order. The government supports the industry, and there cannot be a compromise on that," he said.
Government Support to Grow Film Industry
Pointing out the commitment of his government, CM Revanth Reddy said the steps taken to support film growth:
- Special VOs for Movies: Eight movies were given special permissions, and police support was given to the movie "Pushpa".
- Telugu Industry Promotion: Hyderabad is being made a global hub for cinema, along with IT and pharma sectors.
- Skill Development Initiatives: Advanced Technology Centers and Young India Skills University are being developed to enhance employment opportunities in the entertainment sector.
- Cooperation with International Film Industries: The government is working to attract Bollywood and Hollywood productions by organizing major conferences and creating a conducive ecosystem.
Industry Leaders Respond
Some of the prominent film personalities present at the meeting shared their thoughts:
- Actor Nagarjuna: "To make Hyderabad the world cinema capital, the government has to provide capital investments. Universal studio setups are required."
- Director Raghavendra Rao: "Telangana has some excellent tourist places. The government should host an international film festival in Hyderabad."
- Producer Daggubati Suresh Babu: "Hyderabad should be the address of care for international giants like Netflix and Amazon. We want to make it an international film destination"
- Producer Shyam Prasad Reddy: "The incident at Sandhya Theater was very disturbing. I request attention to even a small issue concerning the industry.
- Actor Murali Mohan: " Film promotions became essential because of competition internationally. The government always proved to be helpful for the betterment of the industry.".
