Karnataka government gives nod to resume film shooting 

The Karnataka government on Monday gave its nod to resume film shoots in the state and advised strict precautionary guidelines to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Confirming this, President of Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce, Jairaj D R, said, "A memorandum was earlier submitted by Film Chamber to the government requesting permission to shoot. Accordingly, the Information Department along with the Health Department came up with certain guidelines, which were further clarified with KFCC members before orders were released on Monday."

"The production houses have to strictly adhere to a six-page list of 18 guidelines laid down by the government. To begin with, shooting is permitted only for those films which are currently in the last leg of shooting and only 50 people are allowed on the sets," Jairaj added. This could be further relaxed in the coming days.

Other guidelines include maintaining the health records of crew members. And in cases of emergencies such as when someone from the crew tests positive for Covid-19, the production house should take the responsibility of admitting them to a hospital.

This apart, thermal screening, keeping a tab on mild cough and fever of crew members, sanitisation of the sets, social distancing, avoiding handshakes, wearing masks, maintenance of makeup room, and restrooms are also included in the guidelines.

“Producers will be responsible for obtaining self-declaration forms. Child artistes within 10 years of age and senior actors are allowed to shoot only after obtaining medical clearance. Appropriate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) kits should be worn by the make-up artist, and every tool should be disinfected after use, besides encouraging the artistes to bring in their own makeup kits," Jairaj said. “This will be passed on to all the departments of the film industry on Tuesday. We have been strictly asked to follow the health protocol.” 

Film Chamber and industry folks are happy with the present order. "On behalf of the film industry, I thank the government for their long-standing support," said Jairaj. "Government is also considering reopening theatres, and they will soon be taking a call."

Earlier, oral permission was granted to permitting shooting for TV soaps and post-production works of various films.