The standoff between the Telugu Film Industry Employees’ Federation and film producers has taken a new turn as the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce moved decisively to counter what it calls a “monopoly” in the industry’s workforce. Amid escalating tensions over a 30% wage hike demand by the Federation—which declared that no shoots under its purview would continue from August 4 unless the hike was implemented—producers have pushed back with a sweeping change in hiring policy. In a statement released today, the Chamber announced that producers will now be free to hire skilled workers and technicians, regardless of their union affiliation. The decision, taken unanimously by members of the Chamber, aims to make the industry more accessible and reduce what producers see as unreasonable barriers to entry. “Why should someone have to pay lakhs just to get a job in the film industry?” the statement questioned, pointing out that steep union joining fees were effectively shutting out many qualified aspirants. The producers argued that such practices limit competition and deprive the industry of fresh talent. Citing a recent order by the Competition Commission of India (CCI), the Chamber reaffirmed that producers have the legal right to hire any qualified individual, not just union members. This marks a significant policy shift in an industry where union membership has traditionally been mandatory for most behind-the-scenes roles. While the move may usher in a more inclusive hiring system, it is not without complications. Replacing experienced union members with non-union workers is likely to be a gradual process. Industry insiders warn that it may be difficult to immediately find enough skilled professionals outside the unions to sustain ongoing productions. Additionally, resistance from unions could continue to cause on-set disruptions. Some filmmakers are expected to delay shoots until a compromise is reached, preferring to preserve continuity and quality with their existing crews. As the impasse continues, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this bold step by the Chamber leads to long-term structural change—or further deepens the divide between producers and workers.
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