It has been alleged that the recent proposal by exhibitors from Andhra Pradesh to shut down theatres from June 1st was a motivated decision made by four powerful industry people. The individuals, who can't be named, allegedly pressured for the closure of theaters ahead of the release of Hari Hara Veera Mallu. The Pawan Kalyan-starrer is slated to hit the cinemas on June 12.
In this regard, Andhra Pradesh Cinematography and Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh, on Friday, directed the Home Department's Chief Secretary to investigate the now-shelved proposal by exhibitors to shut down movie theaters. "Who was behind the drastic proposal?" This is the question the CS needs to interrogate.
The Minister reportedly stressed upon the need to "investigate whether exhibitors and distributors have formed a cartel and are making undesirable decisions". Forming cartels in any industry is violative of certain laws. It's illegitimate to form cartels to suppress competition. "Authorities are also planning to gather details about how many films will be affected due to the closure of theaters and the extent of the disruption this will cause to tax revenue," a source says.
