Regional cinema will be adversely affected by GST rate: Kamal Haasan

Veteran actor Kamal Haasan has hit out at the Central Government for announcing 28% tax slab under the GST (Goods and Services Tax) for cinema.

The actor, along with other representatives of the Tamil film industry, held a press conference on Friday, where he said, "When it comes to the pride of India, it was always regional cinema that stood up for awards in international arenas. Regional cinema contributes to the might of the country. You can't reduce that through taxation."

"I was promised an easy life when the Republic (of India) was formed. Why should I work for the Government? I work for my own sustainability and it is not getting easier. I will have to quit the industry if I am on the highest tax slab," he added.

The 62-year-old also stressed that regional cinema cannot be put on the same level as Bollywood films.