The dual taxation for film exhibition still seems to be a problem in Tamil Nadu as the members of the theatre association is working on to commence a meeting again to discuss the issue. Though the strike that was conducted earlier was called off eventually, the issue seems to have come up yet again.
This has led to some speculations that another strike and closing of theatres might happen in near future. However, an owner of a renowned single-screen theatre in the city, says that it is very unlikely for another strike to happen but the ticket prices might go up — “This meeting is again to talk about the dual taxation system, which is making things difficult for us.”
Meanwhile, the multiplexes in the state has announced strike after a meeting that was held by Multiplex Association of India. The statement from the body read, “MAI believes that this levy of local body entertainment tax (“LBET”) by Chennai Corporation leads to double taxation, on an industry which is already reeling under the impact of high tax rates and piracy, and could well sound the death knell of the film industry. All multiplexes operating within the jurisdiction of the Chennai Corporation, shall go on strike with effect from today, i.e, October 3rd, to protest against this grossly punitive and unfair taxation.
