This story is from May 16, 2014

'We have to go to the cops'

A representation of the Film and TV producers to approach the police for protection against 'rowdy' members of the Allied Mazdoor Union.
'We have to go to the cops'
A representation of the Film and TV producers to approach the police for protection against 'rowdy' members of the Allied Mazdoor Union.
Following the disruption of shoots at Kilick Nixon Studios and Film City earlier this week, producers' bodies including the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) have joined forces to condemn the Allied Mazdoor Union (AMU).
READ: Shoots suffer as Filmcity shuts down
Speaking against the union's secretary, Gangeshwar Shrivastav, they even named the producers who've bribed him in the past to avoid violence or disruption at shoots.
A group of TV and film producers have also decided to meet with the police commissioner early next week and demand protection for their sets.
Ashoke Pandit, the official spokesperson, on behalf of the bodies, said, "We have to go to the cops. And maybe even move court and approach the CM. Gangeshwar was banned months ago but it didn't affect him. He's backed by actor Mithun Chakraborty, the Chairman of the AMU, who despite being informed about this nuisance, didn't act on it. The Federation (FWICE) has now suspended him and launched a non-cooperation movement against the AMU."
The AMU secretary had been suspended days before the incident at the Balaji Telefilms' set where he was bashed up by the Balaji staff when he disrupted the shoot. In response, he stalled shoots in Film City the following day which didn't agree with the producers' bodies.

ALSO READ: Shooting at Filmcity to get easier
"In the guise of helping workers, he extorts money. A few days ago, he tried the same stunt with Sajid Nadiadwala who was shooting Kick at Mehboob Studios. Sajid seeeked help from MNS workers and resumed his shoot.
Following that, J D Majethia has said that if Gangeshwar is not controlled now, the producers will have to resort to free trade whereby they will be free to use workers from any union which can politicise the industry unnecessarily," adds Ashoke.
Gangeshwar, who is unperturbed by his suspension, says, "Our demands are basic: food, safety and wages on time. But the producers bodies aren't addressing these concerns or even willing to discuss it. If need be, even we will move court for our rights."
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About the Author
Rachana Dubey

When not cooking at home, she can be found on the streets of Mumbai, stalking stars or chasing stories. Beneath her loud and talkative surface lies a trustworthy friend, a reliable and deligent worker and a warm human being whose mind is where the heart is.

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