Film workers to go on strike from October 3

The members of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) will go on a strike from October 3 to demand a hike in their daily wages and improved working conditions.

In May, FWICE had threatened to go on a strike if the producers' bodies failed to renew the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that had expired in February. But they called off the plans following a meeting with producers.

Now since talks with TV and film producers' bodies have reportedly failed to to be fruitful, the FWICE has now decided to go on strike next month.

According to a statement by Western India Cinematographers Association (WICA), the FWICE has issued an ultimatum to the producers that if they do not sign the long-pending MoU by October 2; all 22 affiliates including WICA will go on indefinite strike starting from October 3.

"The WICA is in support of the demands and action as proposed by the FWICE. WICA requests all members to be prepared for an indefinite period of hardship and support. This strike is for the betterment for our wages, working conditions and our dignity," read the statement.

Even members of the Cine and TV Artistes Association (CINTAA) members, will be joining in.

"CINTAA supports FWICE's call for indefinite strike from 5 a.m. on October 3. Please support and do not report for shoot from October 3 onwards till further notice," a statement issued to CINTAA members, read.