As per Maharashtra government’s guidelines, no cast/crew member above 65 is to be allowed on the sets during shoots, but industry experts find the idea ‘impractical’
Prashant Singh (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 29, 2020)

Last week, a number of TV shows went back on floors with all the precautions against Coronavirus. Hindi films, though, are yet to follow suit. But even as filmmakers/TV producers work towards following all the guidelines issued by the Maharashtra government, makers are in quandary over one particular point that no cast/crew member above the age of 65 years is to be allowed on the sets/shooting areas.

Earlier this month, Indian Film and Television Directors Association (IFTDA) wrote a letter to Maharashtra chief minister, Uddhav Thackeray seeking reconsideration of the said guideline. Another film body, Indian Motion Pictures Producers’ Association (IMPPA), too, wrote to the chief minister. Last week, IFTDA again sent a letter to the government “regarding the permission for the persons above 65 years to work.”

Although the guideline is yet to be modified, IFTDA president, Ashoke Pandit is “confident that permissions will come in.” He says, “The government has been extremely helpful with regards to all our requests. This point doesn’t just impact actors but so many technicians, as well as labourers etc. But I am sure this will be worked out soon. It could be an oversight.”

In fact, the IFTDA letter goes on to mention several names of actors and directors such as Amitabh Bachchan, Anupam Kher, Paresh Rawal, Mithun Chakraborty, Shakti Kapoor, Dharmendra, David Dhawan, Subhash Ghai, Javed Akhtar, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, and many others, who are all 65 plus and are “actively working in the industry.”

“Why just actors or directors? There’s an entire army of cast-and-crew. What if I have a light-man or someone in the costume department, or a driver in that age bracket? Honestly, it would be very difficult to work with such a directive,” says filmmaker Shoojit Sircar, whose last film, Gulabo Sitabo featured Bachchan in the lead.

Director Anees Bazmee concurs, saying, “A number of our prominent actors as well as technicians are above 65. How can we avoid hiring/casting them? Technically, in Indian films, we have so many grandfather or grandmother parts. What will happen to them? Especially, our TV shows are filled with senior citizens’ parts.”

For actor-politician, Paresh Rawal — who turned 65 last month — the guideline is “purely impractical.” He adds, “I am sure the government will have to alter it.” Dhawan, on his part, also feels that “like everyone else, 65 plus actors and technicians should also be allowed to work.” The Coolie No. 1 director says with a smile, “Unlike regular jobs, there can’t be a retirement age for creative people. But I am sure the government will allow them [65 plus actors and technicians] also to work.”

Senior actors’ upcoming projects

Amitabh Bachchan: Chehre, Jhund, Brahmastra

Paresh Rawal: Second Innings, Toofan, Hungama 2, Saina, Coolie No. 1

Jackie Shroff: Sooryavanshi, Radhe, Soorarai Pottru (Tamil), Firrkie

Gulshan Grover: Mumbai Saga, Sadak 2, Sooryavanshi

Pointing out that they employ many daily wage earners, J D Majethia hopes that work will re-start on closed, sanitised set with a small unit and precautions; to approach government with a proposal
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; April 20, 2020)

Before the nationwide Coronavirus lockdown, which started on March 25, Mirror (March 16) had reported that film and TV bodies, including the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), Indian Film and TV Producers Council (IFTPC), Western India Film Producers’ Association (WIFPA), Association of Advertising Producers (ASAP) and the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA), had held a joint meeting on March 15 at which it was decided to stop all ongoing film, TV and OTT shoots for March 19-31. The restrictions were further extended to April 15 and then to May 3, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the nation.

Now, chairman of the TV wing of IFTPC, J D Majethia, informs that they plan to reach out to the government with a proposal that they be allowed to restart TV shoots in a protected environment from May 4. A plan of action is currently being developed.

“The PM, in his recent address, announced that keeping the daily wage earners in mind, some industries will be started, in phases, depending on how the situation improves. We have a lot of daily wage earners in our industry and we are working to approach the government with a request to be given preference. We can work out some SOPs, and with a small unit, we would like to be given permission to start shoots for TV on a closed set at the earliest. Right now, we feel we will be able to shoot after May 3,” says the producer. He is quick to add that no one’s health will be compromised by this move. “If we set required parameters, shoot in a sanitised zone and are extremely careful, then, we would like to be allowed to resume business slowly,” he adds.

Currently, most General Entertainment Channels are airing reruns of old shows, with no new episodes in the bank. Ramayan and Mahabharat reruns on Doordarshan have gathered record-breaking TRPs. Two of JD’s shows—Khichdi and Sarabhai Vs Sarabhai—are also being telecast on Star Bharat.

Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; March 17, 2020)

In a bid to tackle the ongoing Coronavirus crisis, it has been decided that shoots of all TV shows will be suspended from March 19 till March 31. The decision was taken on Sunday, in a meeting between the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), Indian Film and Television Producers Council (IFTPC), Indian Motion Picture Producers Association (IMPPA), Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), Western India Producers’ Association (WIPA). J D Majethia, chairman, IFTPC and producer of Bhakharwadi, informs, “Serial production is a vulnerable business. If shoots come to a halt, it leads to unbearable losses. However, nothing is more important than human life. As they say, the show will definitely go on, but we have taken a break to support the industry, state, country and the world at large.”

GET READY FOR RERUNS AND RECAPS
Despite commencing shoots in advance, it’s almost impossible to create a bank of episodes of TV shows. Reason: The storyline undergoes several changes based on the audience’s feedback and ratings. However, given the current scenario, an attempt is being made to shoot as many episodes as possible in a limited time, so that the audience isn’t deprived of their daily dose of entertainment. If the shoots don’t commence even after the banks of episodes are exhausted, viewers will get to see reruns of their favourite soaps.

Actress Aneri Vajani, who is seen in Pavitra Bhagya, says, “We are putting in more hours so that maximum number of episodes can be shot. Everyone is cooperating, and I hope that we meet the deadline. But more importantly, I hope this virus gets eliminated soon.”

Aishwarya Sakhuja, who plays Mahima Srinivasan in Yeh Hai Chahatein, adds, “We don’t have a bank of episodes, but I am glad that a lockdown has been declared. This suspension is the need of the hour. Hundreds of people work on our sets every day. Of these, many use public transport and they are at an increased risk of COVID-19 infection. So, let’s take a break and get back stronger.”

Ashish Chowdhry, who is currently seen in Beyhadh 2, agrees that a ‘no show’ will have an adverse effect on the viewership. He says, “It will make a difference because people will lose their flow of watching shows and the habit will break. I hope we make some good reruns and recaps to keep them hooked.”

PAID LEAVES FOR DAILY WAGERS
While business will be affected, it’s daily-wage workers who will suffer maximum because of the lockdown. Ashok Dubey, general secretary FWICE, says, “Our members comprise at least 90 per cent of the unit. The decision has come as a huge blow to them, but nothing is more important than life. If anything happens to them, their families will suffer, too. We had issued a circular on March 5, instructing every producer to implement safety measures, but some of them didn’t implement them. Hence, we had to arrive at this decision to ensure everyone’s safety.”

Talking about the provision of paid leaves for the daily wagers during the shutdown phase, he adds, “The producers have told us that they will have a discussion with the broadcasters about this.”
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PRODUCERS WELCOME THE MOVE

This is the best decision we could have taken for the industry. I am thankful to the broadcasters, producers and other associations for joining hands to curb the spread of the virus. We have taken precautionary measures on our set — right from installing a fumigation machine to a doctor examining every member of the unit, and arranging for masks and sanitisers. However, these are only basic preventive measures. The best prevention is to exercise selfquarantine. The daily wagers will be badly affected, so I would urge every producer to give them half a day’s salary for the duration they won’t be shooting. They are our families and we can’t function without them. This is the least we can do to look after them. We have already promised them paid leaves if they are unwell, but with the shutdown coming into effect, we should help them sustain in these difficult times.

— Benaifer Kohli, producer of Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hain!
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A decision has been taken to stop all shoots, but other factors like telecast and ratings are still under discussion. A decision will be taken after a meeting between the producers and broadcasters, which is slated to take place soon. For now, we are working at breakneck speed to create a back of episodes. On March 30, we shall a take call on the next course of action after analysing the situation.

— Sumeet Mittal, producer of Shubharambh
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The health and safety of our team members are of paramount importance. I am not even taking into consideration the monetary loss or ratings. All that is secondary when it comes to human lives. In fact, along with the broadcaster, I have postponed the launch of my show, Anupamaa. For now, I have a bank of fresh episodes of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, which will last for a week. At a time like this, we can’t have double standards. We can’t have our families stay safe at home and expect the unit to work. I am sure the broadcasters and producers will devise an alternate plan for their respective shows. We can’t have fresh episodes and reruns going on air together.

— Rajan Shahi, producer of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai and Yeh Rishte Hain Pyaar Ke

Makers instructed to put film, television, OTT shoots on hold till March 31; ration, medical facilities being arranged for workers
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; March 16, 2020)

Mirror had recently reported (March 13) that the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA) were among film bodies that instructed filmmakers to maintain hygiene and safety guidelines on sets to combat the coronavirus outbreak.

On Sunday, representatives from the two film bodies, along with Indian Film and TV Producers Council (IFTPC), Western India Film Producers’ Association (WIFPA), Association of Advertising Producers (ASAP) and Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA), held a joint meeting at which it was decided to bring a halt to all ongoing film, TV and OTT shoots from March 19-31. “We have given everyone three days to wrap up pending work. The entire entertainment industry, including post-production work, will be on hold till March 31. Those shooting outside of India will have to return home,” said Birendra Nath Tiwari, President, FWICE.

When asked about the move’s impact on daily wage workers, Tiwari said, “The Federation is taking that into consideration. It’s a matter of just 11 days and health is the paramount concern. That said, we will try to arrange for ration and provide facilities for them. We already have an ambulance in place, along with free medicines and a doctor in case any worker needs emergency help.”

Ashoke Pandit, President, IFTDA, reiterated that lives are more important than monetary impact. “It’s an emergency situation with the entire nation fighting the virus. Lakhs of people are involved in shoots and it is our responsibility to take care of them,” he added.

Soon after the advisory, filmmaker Sudhir Mishra reached out to Pandit, along with Anubhav Sinha, Hansal Mehta, Sushant Singh, Sameer Nair and Nikkhil Advani on Twitter, with a question: “Shouldn’t we set up a fund for the junior technicians, our light boys, set workers, sound assistants etc?” His industry friends, along with others like Vikramaditya Motwane, Anurag Kashyap and Manish Mundra, offered support to the initiative.

Rachana Dubey and Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; March 15, 2020)

The COVID-19 epidemic has impacted life across the country, including Metros like Delhi and Mumbai. On Friday, the Maharashtra government announced that gyms, malls, cinema halls and swimming pools will be closed till March 31 to curb the spread of the coronavirus. Film releases, live shows, concerts and sporting events have also been postponed. In keeping with the ongoing situation, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) is planning to put all the film, TV and ad-film shoots on hold for a few days as a preventive measure.

FILM BODIES TO MEET TODAY
FWICE’s President Birendra Nath Tiwari told BT, “Shoots for films, TV shows and ads are like public gatherings, and masks and sanitisers alone won’t help in such a situation. For the sake of people’s lives, we, too, can stop work for a few days.” In fact, FWICE has been speaking to various producers’ bodies regarding this. A meeting between members of the Indian Motion Pictures Producers’ Association (IMPPA), Western India Film Producers’ Association (WIFPA), Indian Film & Television Directors' Association (IFTDA) and FWICE will be held today to decide a plan of action.

‘WE WANT TO DRAW UP A WORKABLE PLAN’
Ashoke Pandit told BT, “The idea is not to put a blanket stop on work. We want to draw up a workable plan to ensure that if individual producers, technicians and actors decide to continue work, they are safe. Having sanitisers, masks and medical help at hand and maintaining hygiene are crucial and sets will be monitored for that. More than 50 per cent of this industry works on daily pay packets. Those workers will suffer a great deal if shoots come to a complete halt,” he told BT.

FWICE has already written to producers, requesting them to refrain from shooting in countries affected by COVID-19. They have also been asked to report if any individual who has travelled from a COVID-19-affected region is present on their set. Feroz Khan, the chairman for health and safety vigilance in the FWICE, said, “A few film shoots are on in Lucknow and Banaras, but they are following strict regulations. Anyone with any symptom of COVID-19 is being sent to the nearest medical facility with their payment cleared up to that day.”



TV SETS IMPLEMENT STRICT MEASURES
Meanwhile, the television industry has also implemented measures to fight the situation. While shoots can’t be stalled because of telecast demands and a paucity of bank of episodes, the makers and the crew of TV shows have come together to spread awareness. The Indian Film and TV Producers Council (IFTPC) has issued a directive to all producers, asking them to take the necessary precautionary steps. J D Majethia, chairman of IFTPC and the producer of TV show Bhakharwadi, said, “We have requested broadcasters to urge producers to educate their crew and also maintain hygiene on their sets. We are putting up posters in two-three languages with simple instructions about precautionary measures. We are also encouraging those suffering from any COVID-19 symptoms to bring it to our notice so that we can help them get immediate medical attention. We already have doctors visiting sets to check every worker thoroughly. Those who aren’t feeling well will get paid leaves. We have also requested junior workers to not send in their replacement, which happens in most cases, so that there is no confusion regarding who is working on a given day”.

‘THOSE UNWELL NEEDN’T FEAR PAY-CUTS’
Siddharth Kumar Tewary, producer of RadhaKrishn, shared, “We have asked the office staff to work from home. Those who can’t, like the ones working in the post-production and edit departments, are advised to report only when there is work. On the set, you will find everyone with a mask on. We have ensured that bottles of sanitisers are kept at every 10 to 15 feet. We have also formed a team that ensures that everybody washes their hands and sanitises them frequently. Actors’ make-up rooms, lunch area and bedrooms are disinfected and cleaned every half an hour.”

Kinnari Mehta, producer of Maddam Sir, told us, “Apart from providing sanitisers and soaps, we have instructed each and every member of the unit to practise respiratory hygiene. We also make sure that people bringing food for the unit are wearing gloves all the time. Everyone wears a mask during the shoot and post it.”

Mahesh Pandey, producer of Vidya, says, “We have ensured that sets are cleaned frequently. We have also distributed masks and sanitisers to everyone. Anyone who has been feeling under the weather has been asked to take an off without any fear of a pay cut.”
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TV SHOW TO AIR AN EPISODE ON CORONAVIRUS

Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah is currently shooting an episode on the epidemic. Dilip Joshi, who plays Jethalal in the show, says, “Coronavirus is a pandemic and, unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation doing the rounds. So, our producer Asit Kumarr Modi and the creative team have decided to spread awareness through our show.”

Film bodies spring into action; IFTDA, IMPPA issue advisory to production houses to maintain hygiene on film sets while FWICE to hold a meeting today
Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; March 13, 2020)

Mirror had earlier reported (February 7) that Ronnie Screwvala’s upcoming production, Sitara, which was to roll in Kerala last month, was delayed after the government declared Coronavirus outbreak a state calamity. On Thursday, the makers of Sooryavanshi announced that the release of the Rohit Shetty directorial, which is fronted by Akshay Kumar, has been indefinitely postponed.

With the fate of several other forthcoming films in limbo, Indian Film & TV Directors’ Association (IFTDA), Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and Indian Motion Pictures Producers’ Association (IMPPA) have sprung into action to combat the outbreak.

According to Ashoke Pandit, President, IFTDA, the film bodies have instructed filmmakers to closely monitor films sets to assure that proper hygiene is maintained. “Masks will also be distributed to workers and technicians, while we are seeking doctors’ advice on how to take care of our members,” he informs.

IMPPA has sent out circulars, asking its members to take necessary precautions in workspaces. Birendra Nath Tiwari, President, FWICE, informs that a meeting has been scheduled for later today with the Indian Film and Television Producers Council (IFTPC) and several TV channels. “Schools and colleges have been shut and exams postponed for the sake of safety. A film shoot is not more important than a human life. However, a final call will be taken only after the meeting. The virus is spreading, and we will have to analyse the situation before taking a call,” Tiwari signs off.

Niharika Lal (BOMBAY TIMES; February 8, 2020)

Section’ and ‘Article’ seem to be the new favourite words in film titles as producers are making a beeline at the production association offices to register the titles of their films. Last year, after the central government revoked Article 370 (which granted Jammu and Kashmir special status), the associations received multiple applications for titles with Article 370 as well as Article 35 A, and Dhara 370 in them. An official of Indian Film and TV Producers Council (IFTPC) says, “Those titles which are registered with us are Section 364, Section 376, Section 302, Section 420, Section 484, Section 424, Article 14, Article 370, Article 35A, Dhara 370.”

An official of the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA), says, “IMPPA has received around 20 applications for the title of films which include the words ‘Article’, ‘Dhara’, ‘Section’ in them. As the films Article 15 and Section 375 created quite a buzz, many producers are also interested in having these words in the titles. A committee will look into the plot and other aspects of the films and then decide who should be granted the titles.”

A source from the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), says, “We’ve registered 15 titles with ‘Section’ and ‘Article’ in them for feature films. We also have several other applications for titles including Citizenship (Amendment) Act in them.” Gautam Chintamani, a film historian says, “It’s not surprising that filmmakers are making a beeline for these titles because filmmakers and audience both find movies with such titles intriguing. Also, titles with ‘Section’ or ‘Article’ are good for social media campaigns – in forming hashtags and get the film trending, making it topical. Article 15 should get the credit of coming up with the title first.”

PEOPLE INITIALLY WONDERED WHAT KIND OF NAME IS ARTICLE 15 FOR A FILM: ANUBHAV SINHA
While film experts now praise the film Article 15 for its title, director Anubhav Sinha says that his judgment was questioned when people from the film industry first heard about the title of his film. Speaking at a session in Delhi, he said, “When I named my film Article 15, people in the industry were wondering, ‘What kind of a name is this for a film?’ But that film did more business than many big budget movies and what’s more important is that the title Article 15 struck an emotional chord with the audience.”

Ajay Bahl, director of the film Section 375, adds, “When Manish Gupta wrote the film, he titled it Section 375 because that was the story (based on Section 375 of Indian Penal Code) , and it made perfect sense. But honestly, I thought that we should use another title instead. But we couldn’t come up with anything better than this for this film, so we kept it. And it worked.”

Pointing out how Bollywood has the habit of following trends, Gautam Chintamani, says, “Knowing the Bombay film industry, it’s likely that producers will tell the writers to just go through the Constitution and see on which Article/Section a film’s title can be based!”

There are several film producers’ associations and to avoid duplication of titles, all these associations cross-check with each other before registering the film titles.

KEY TITLES REGISTERED AND WHAT THEY MEAN

Section 364: Kidnapping or abducting in order to murder

Section 376: Punishment for rape

Section 302: Punishment for murder

Section 420: Cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property

Section 484: Counterfeiting a mark used by a public servant

Section 424: Dishonest or fraudulent removal or concealment of property

Article 14: Equality before the law or equal protection of the laws within the territory of India

Article 370: The recently abrogated article acknowledged the special status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir in terms of autonomy and its ability to formulate laws for the state’s permanent residents

Article 35A: The recently abrogated article empowered the Jammu and Kashmir state’s legislature to define “permanent residents” of the state and provide special rights and privileges to those permanent residents

Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; May 6, 2019)

After several months of speculations, last week it was confirmed that Godrej Properties has bought R K Studios from the Kapoors. As per plans, a business-cum-residential complex will be built on the land that housed the iconic film studio. It was an emotional, but practical call for the Kapoors, who were struggling to maintain it, especially after a considerable part of the studio was gutted in a fire in September 2017.

The R K Studios, which saw a host of landmark films and shows being shot in its premises, was also the venue for the Kapoors’ annual Ganeshotsav celebrations. Years ago, the family also hosted their legendary Holi parties at the studio.

While talking to Bombay Times on Saturday, Randhir Kapoor had said that he hoped that the new owners would respect the legacy of the land that they have acquired. Now, the Indian Film and Directors’ Association (IFTDA) has expressed similar views. They have written to Adi Godrej requesting him to build a museum on the land, and dedicate it to Raj Kapoor to keep his legacy alive.

In the letter, the association states, “We extend our heartiest congratulations to you for acquiring the iconic RK Studios. The devastating fire in September 2017 gutted the studio, which had been built 70 years ago by the legendary Raj Kapoor. The Showman’s name spells magic and reminds one of the cinematic masterpieces crafted by him… Raj Kapoor was an institution in himself, an inspiration to budding directors, a guide to media students, and a connoisseur of music. His legacy has to be protected for the future generations… It’s our humble appeal to you on behalf of the film industry and the IFTDA to spare some area from the 33,000 sq meters, for a Raj Kapoor museum, which will refresh the memories of the filmmaker and actor for the next generations. We request you to pay this tribute to the unsurpassable genius and give a solemn thought to our appeal.”

Ashoke Pandit, president of the association, explains, “We felt that as an association it is important for us to do our best to protect and save the identity of great masters like Raj Kapoor. One feels sad when you see towers and malls built on studio lands in the city. Many studios are being sold to builders for various reasons. These were built by great masters of cinema, whose vision was to keep the craft alive. Hence, they had built these studios, which became our identity. These were places of worship for the film industry. We conveyed our request to Adi Godrej because we know that apart from being an industrialist, he also respects art and culture. We hope that he will consider our request.”
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OTHER STUDIOS THAT ARE A PART OF BOLLYWOOD HISTORY, WHICH HAVE DOWNED THEIR SHUTTERS

Apart from R K Studios in the Central suburbs, films were once shot at Famous Studios at Mahalaxmi, and Ranjit Studios, Shree Sound Studios and Roop Tara Studios at Dadar. The location was convenient as a lot of actors used to live in South Mumbai (between Marine Drive and a few kilometres to the North). Another prominent studio in Central Mumbai was V Shantaram’s Rajkamal Kala Mandir in Parel, which was built in 1942.

As the action moved to North Mumbai, the demand for shooting floors in Central and South Mumbai dipped. Some of the studios in these areas are striving hard to stay alive, while others have shut shop. Filmmaker Mehboob Khan did not want to establish his studio in the Northern suburbs where one had many options like Natraj, Swati, Mohan, Essel, Kamalistan, Chandivali, Filmalaya and Filmistan. He zeroed in on a plot in Bandra, a suburb dominated by schools, churches and parishes in 1954. Mehboob Studios, spread over more than four acres of prime land, went on to become a landmark and continues to remain one. The property has survived the builder lobby because it belongs to a trust.

Natraj Studios in Andheri, which was once bustling with action, was sold off to a builder. Another popular location, just a few hundred meters across the Western Express Highway in Andheri was Mohan Studios, which was gutted in a fire.

Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; March 2, 2019)

From the many sexual harassment cases that came to light last year, actress-model Elnaaz Norouzi’s accusation against filmmaker Vipul Amrutlal Shah was among the most prominent ones. Now, the filmmaker has been cleared of the allegations by the Indian Film And Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA) after an investigation.

The allegations had first come to the fore in mid-October and in January 2019, Vipul Shah decided to approach the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) of the IFTDA to investigate the matter. He wrote a letter to the IFTDA and in compliance with the procedures, the association sent Norouzi a request to present her side of the story to the ICC with evidences, if any. Eleven days later, Elnaaz responded via an email, dated January 26, saying, “At the outset, I would like to thank your offices for making the effort to approach me. I look forward to your support when I initiate legal proceedings against Mr Vipul Shah. For now, this is all that I can disclose since I am taking legal advice from my counsel.”

A hearing was conducted by the committee, comprising advocate Vibhav Krishna, producer Ashoke Pandit, filmmakers Shrabani Deodhar, Priyanka Ghatak and Sudhakar Sharma and IFTDA’s administrator Praveena Shetty, among others. Vipul and his witness, Aashin Shah, were questioned and their statements were recorded and thoroughly examined by the committee members. It was then decided that Shah should be absolved of the allegations made by Norouzi.

The IFTDA’S letter, intimating both parties about the decision, states, “We are pleased to inform you that after interrogation by the POSH Committee in its meeting held on February 12, and Ms Elnaaz Norouzi’s reply dated January 26, obstructing the cause of natural justice by refusing to disclose the facts, the Internal Complaints Committee unanimously gave its recommendation, which is: ‘Ms Elnaaz Norouzi has not cooperated with the POSH enquiry, therefore the ICC is left with no option but to proceed ex parte and to pass an ex parte order dismissing the allegations against Mr Vipul Amrutlal Shah and to absolve him of any impropriety or improper and unethical conduct and the allegations of sexual misconduct and harassment. The efficacy, correctness and purpose of the allegations made in the news report remain unverified.’”

Advocate Vibhav Krishna, who was part of the committee, explained, “In compliance with the principles of natural justice and to enable Elnaaz to give a response, reiteration and corroboration of her complaints, published in the news articles, we reached out to her so she should communicate with us by any means – email or by submission or by being present at the hearing. We play a responsible part in this exercise. The allegations she made were serious in nature and her response would have helped her pursue the matter further and see it through. Simultaneously, we also have to provide a safety net to the accused so that he is not condemned merely because there is a news report in print and on the web. If the allegations made in a newspaper remain unverified, then Vipul is entitled to be protected.”

Vibhav added, “The committee and its approach are gender-neutral. So, we followed the same procedure that we would have had the complainant been a woman. We gave Elnaaz an equal chance to speak up and present her side of the story, which she didn’t. Vipul has not been given a clean chit for the lack of evidence; he has been given a clean chit because all the allegations made against him were found to be mere words published in the media, which remain unverified to date. The burden of proof would have shifted had Elnaaz produced any verification or even a reiteration of what she told the press. He would have had to then present more facts to come clean if she had spoken up before the ICC or even written to us with her side of the story. This case suggests that unsubstantiated allegations will never help the greater cause of the #MeToo movement.”

According to Priyanka Ghatak, a member of the ICC, no case should remain one-sided. She says, “It’s a different matter if one of the parties refuses to participate in the investigations. We are not a biased committee. We needed Elnaaz Norouzi’s side of the story, but she turned down our request to participate and produce any material against Vipul Shah.”

IFTDA president Ashoke Pandit says, “Vipul, the accused in this case, approached us and participated in the investigation. He was willing to face Elnaaz in the hearing, and was ready for the consequences if he was found guilty. On the contrary, the victim didn’t show up and wrote back to us that she will approach us when she feels the need to. We, at IFTDA, have gone by the book, formed our ICC in keeping with the POSH Act’s provisions and we are unbiased and gender neutral. We have legal representatives in the committee to guide us to find the right solutions in every matter. In Sajid Khan’s case, the women who accused him participated in the investigation, after which he was found guilty. The industry stood by what was decided because it was an impartial outcome.”

Even as channel, producers of The Kapil Sharma Show remain mum on his permanent replacement, IFTDA president Ashoke Pandit reiterates blanket ban on Navjot Singh Sidhu after his Pulwama terror attack remark
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; February 23, 2019)

After the Indian Film & Television Directors' Association issued a statement on Thursday asserting that they have requested Sony Entertainment to terminate Navjot Singh Sidhu's services from The Kapil Sharma Show, rumours were rife yesterday that the Punjab cabinet minister was banned from entering Film City in Mumbai.

Talking to mid-day, IFTDA president Ashoke Pandit cleared the air: "Film City cannot ban him from entering. He can move around in Film City as much as he wants, but our workers and technicians won't work with him. This is an indefinite ban."

The move comes in the wake of Sidhu's comments regarding the Pulwama terror attack. The politician-anchor had stated that a nation cannot be held responsible for the acts of terrorists. With his comment sparking outrage across the country and fans demanding his ouster from Kapil Sharma's comedy show, Sidhu went promptly missing from his anchoring duties. Although Archana Puran Singh replaced him in the last two episodes of the show, it remains unclear if she is a permanent fixture. The show's producer Salman Khan and the channel have remained tight-lipped about Sidhu's exit, so far.

On his part, Pandit states that he has requested Khan to look into the matter. "We will boycott any show where Sidhu is participating. We have written to the channel as well Salman Khan. He is an intelligent man. He won't do anything that hurts public sentiments."

DNA (February 17, 2019)

There’s a huge outpour of public sentiment across India. Anger, sadness, indignation — mixed feelings about the mindless attack by Jaish-e-Mohammed that took place in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, on February 14, have been expressed across the nation. The Hindi film industry is both agitated and upset about this tragedy, which claimed the lives of over 45 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. Besides expressing their thoughts through their social media accounts, members of the industry will unite to express solidarity with the armed forces and protest against the ghastly terror strike.

Film industry to march for the slain soldiers
Today afternoon, 24 film associations including the FWICE (Federation of Western India Cine Employees) and IFTDA (Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association) will participate in a protest at Film City, Goregaon. The various units at the location will halt work for two hours between 2 pm and 4 pm and come together to condemn the terror attack. Similarly, the crews of TV shows, which are being shot today at various venues across the city, will stop work for the two hours as a mark of respect for the bravehearts.

Ashoke Pandit, filmmaker and President of IFTDA, said that they have shared details of their protests with all the film bodies. He says, “We have invited everyone who is a part of the industry to join us as we protest this gruesome terror attack and pay tribute to our martyred soldiers.”

Pandit added that the industry bodies will also call for a blanket ban on working with talent from the neighbouring country. “They have never condemned any attack by the terrorists. While in the past, there have been instances of keeping cultural exchange separate from confrontations at the border and terror attacks, this time around, we must make it clear that we won’t collaborate with them. Moreover, we should not release our films in Pakistan,” he said, adding, “After this protest, we’ll work on passing a resolution to ban Pakistani talent if they can’t speak against such attacks. If they are gaining from their collaborations with our industry, they must show solidarity with India in such situations as well. They can’t use us only to further their careers.”


Music label axes songs by Pak artistes
The music industry, too, is taking a tough stand. Neha Kakkar and other Indian singers have apparently opted out of a show to be held in Houston, USA, in April, which was backed by a Pakistan-based organiser. Performers from across the border, like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Atif Aslam, seem to have been dropped, too. T-Series, which had recently released tracks with the two singers, have already taken those off their online channels. The music label and production house has also stopped the promotions of these songs.

On a sombre note
Keeping in mind the magnitude of the tragedy, industry people cancelled various film-related and personal events. Kangana Ranaut had planned to celebrate the success of her historical epic Manikarnika - The Queen Of Jhansi with a party at her home on February 16. However, she called off the bash after reports of the attack came to light. Meanwhile, filmmaker Sajid Nadiadwala has asked his team to cancel all the plans for his birthday tomorrow.

B-Town grieves for the jawans
Industry folk expressed their grief through their social media accounts. Akshay Kumar, who has been pursuing the cause of looking after martyred soldiers’ families, said, “Numb beyond belief at the dastardly terror attack on #CRPF soldiers in #Pulwama. May God give peace to their souls, and strength to their grieving families. Wishing the injured a speedy recovery. We can’t let this be forgotten.” He also implored people to donate for the kin of these martyrs. He tweeted, “#Pulwama is something we cannot & will not forget. We’re all angry & it’s time to act. So act now, donate to the martyrs of Pulwama on www.bharatkeveer.gov.in  There’s no better way to pay homage to them & show your support.”

Aamir Khan expressed that he was heartbroken upon hearing the news. He said, “I am heartbroken to read about the terrorist attack on our CRPF Jawans in Pulwama. It’s so tragic. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the Jawans who have lost their lives.” Salman Khan tweeted, “My heart goes out for the Jawans of our beloved country and their families who lost their lives as martyrs to save our families...”

The third Khan of the trio, Shah Rukh, too put his sentiments into words, saying, “Heartfelt condolences to the families of our valiant jawans. May the souls of our countrymen who laid their lives down for us rest in peace. #Pulwama”

Some actors also voiced sadness and anger at the news of the incident. Ajay Devgn said, “Horrible and disgusting. Anger can’t be put into words. #KashmirTerrorAttack.” Ranveer Singh, who wears his emotions on his sleeve, said, “Disgusted at the cowardly terror attack on the #CRPF soldiers in #Pulwama — my sincere condolences to the families of our brave jawans. Saddened. Angry.”

Veteran actor Rishi Kapoor’s strong words were, “Shameful shocking reprehensible. Absolute act of cowardice. Perpetrators of this heinous crime cannot be friends with people of Kashmir. We stand by the bereaved families.” Karan Johar’s tweet read, “My deepest thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the Pulwama attacks and their families.”

Bollywood actresses, too, were vocal about their feelings. Anushka Sharma said, “It is extremely painful to read about the attack on our brave #CRPF jawans in #Pulwama. My deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of our martyred soldiers.” Pointing to the despair, Swara Bhasker wrote, “What a dark dark day... Can’t stop thinking of the mindless violence, evil hate & sinister politics that has killed 40 working class bravehearts today... Thinking of their bereaved families. May they find the strength to deal with this cruel tragedy. Prayers. #PulawamaTerrorAttack”