Theatre owners call off strike in Tamil Nadu on fourth day of strike

The strike has been called off following the formation of a committee comprising government officials and representatives of theatre associations.

Theatre owners had been protesting since July 3 after the state government imposed an additional tax of 30 % over the GST slab of 28%.

According to the new tax system, the movie tickets below 100 rupees will be charged 18% while 28% above 100.

Goods and Services Tax was launched on June 30 midnight by President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

According to the Indian Express, the president of Tamil Nadu Cinema Theatre Owner's Federation said the movie halls will be open from Friday onwards.

Earlier, superstar Rajinikanth who comes from the state, urged the state government to look into the matter.

"Keeping in mind the livelihood of Lakhs of people in the tamil film industry, I sincerely request the TN GOVT to seriously consider our plea," he tweeted on July 4.

Actor Kamal Haasan extended his support to the Theatre owners' protest and echoed the words of Rajinikanth. In a tweet, the actor said on July 5: "Thanks Rajni avaragaLay for voicing your concern. Lets request first as gentlemen should. Then we shall see. @superstarrajini & TN .Govt."

The decision to call off the strike will definitely give a sigh of relief to the producers and distributors as three Tamil films are scheduled to release in one week time. Vikram Vedha on July 7, Gemini Ganesanum Suruli Rajanum and Meesaya Murukku on July 14 are scheduled to release.

Image: Creative Commons.