These are bad times for the Tamil film industry in more than one way. Even as the Tamil Film Producers Council (TFPC) and Film Employees Federation of South India (FEFSI) are in a tussle over wages, a crack has emerged in the dancers union.

A section of dance masters feel the need for a separate union for them, as the existing organisation covers choreographers as well as dancers. However, they are opposed by a majority of members.

"Since we are less in numbers, we are not allowed to go ahead with our proposal. Our problems are different to that of dancers. So we are in need of a separate union to take care of our welfare," said popular choreographer Raghuram.

On Monday, a press meet was convened at the union office by Raghuram and his supporters. However, they could not do so, as the office building was locked by the existing office-bearers.

Speaking to reporters, secretary of the union Prem siad, "This is not the right time to raise any issue since the industry is already in a big trouble. Some are trying to make use of the opportunity and break the union."