Earlier this week, the Telugu Film Industry Employees’ Federation (TFIEF) had announced its decision of not partaking in any shoots for Telugu films and OTT unless their demands for a 30 per cent wage hike are met. The decision has brought entire industry to a standstill, causing all shoots to come to a halt. Now SKN, honorary secretary of Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce (TFCC) has issued an advisory to all members, regarding the way forward.
In his official statement, SKN noted, “All members are hereby advised not to engage in any discussions or negotiations with any individual Unions of the Telugu Film Industry Employees Federation that have called for a unilateral strike, until further notice.”
SKN also instructed studios, outdoor units and infra unit members to not provide any services without prior intimation and approval from TFCC. “Producers and Studio Sector members are requested to treat this matter with utmost seriousness and strict compliance,” he added.
It is to be noted that besides asking for a pay hike of 30 percent for current year, followed by a 10 percent raise for subsequent two years, TFIEF also insisted that the increased salaries must be disbursed on the same day of shooting. TFIEF constitutes all 24 categories of employees and workers from technical crew to production staff.
On August 4, TFCC issued a statement, opposing the federation’s demands, and passing a 'unanimous resolution' to allow producers to hire non-union workers. Additionally, the Active Telugu Film Producers’ Guild (ATFPG) has opened applications for non-union skilled workers, allowing aspiring professionals to apply online. Mohan Vadlapatla, Joint Secretary of TFCC, said, “We are offering membership to freshers for just Rs 1,000 so they can start working immediately. This will help reduce dependency on inflated union wages.”
