Article Today, Hyderabad: The wage dispute in the Telugu film industry has deepened. For several days, film workers have been staging protests demanding an increase in their pay. On Saturday, they held a large demonstration outside the Film Federation office in Hyderabad. Talks between producers and workers’ unions failed, prompting unions to intensify their agitation. The Film Federation has warned that if there is no positive response from the Film Chamber, all shootings will be halted from Monday.
Anger Over Producers’ Decision
Workers have been seeking a 30 per cent wage hike. However, producers have decided to raise wages for workers in only three specific categories. This move has sparked strong discontent among the unions. They argue that the hike should apply equally to all daily-wage workers across the 13 unions. Selective increases, they say, will undermine unity among workers and create divisions.
Notices Trigger Further Outrage
The dispute escalated after prominent producer Vishwa Prasad issued notices to some workers. Union leaders condemned the move. Production Union president Basati Krishna said workers were not domestic help to be intimidated with notices. He warned that if their strength was challenged, they were ready to fight back. The union has demanded that Vishwa Prasad withdraw the notices and issue an apology. They also alleged that his production house, People’s Media, owes them ₹90 lakh in pending dues.
Senior Figures Step in for Resolution
Amid rising tensions, senior actor Chiranjeevi has reached out to the unions. According to Federation secretary Ammiraju, the actor wants the issue to be resolved peacefully. State minister Komatireddy Venkata Reddy has also expressed his support for the workers. Union leader Anil said they will meet the minister soon. These developments are being seen as a positive sign towards resolving the standoff.
