AP Govt is not against Tollywood, says Minister Durgesh

In the middle of the ongoing issues between exhibitors and producers in the Telugu film industry, Andhra Pradesh Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh addressed the media and made it clear that the state government is not working against the interests of the film industry. He questioned whether the government had taken any decision that hurt the industry, even though leading members of Tollywood have not met the Chief Minister since he took office.

Durgesh said the government has always been supportive when it comes to ticket price increases. He explained that whenever producers requested a hike, the files were processed as per the directions of the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister. Once the file reaches the Home Affairs department for final approval, court cases sometimes follow. He mentioned that after the approval, a few people file public interest litigations which force top officials like the Principal Secretary and other officers to respond in court. Despite these legal challenges, he stressed that the government continues to stand with the industry and has been trying to allow hikes wherever possible.

He added that the government understands how much effort and time go into making a big film and how many people depend on the success of one project. That is why, he said, ticket hikes not only help the producers recover their costs but also bring in extra revenue to the state and central governments through GST. He noted that the Deputy Chief Minister had already given a clear explanation on this matter.

The minister also responded to comments made by some producers who claimed they could handle the situation on their own without government help. Durgesh disagreed with this view and reminded everyone that government support is vital for the growth of the film industry. He said cinema is an important and valuable source of entertainment for the public, and the current government respects and encourages it. He pointed out that the previous government failed to support the industry and even insulted some film personalities.