The film exhibition industry is making all-out efforts to impress upon the government to end the lockdown. Even in Unlock 4, theatres haven't been allowed to operate.

Industry representatives have said that, since mid-March, the exhibition sector has lost up to Rs 1,500 crores per month. In total, it has incurred losses to the tune of Rs 9,000 crores.

"The cinema exhibition sector directly employs 2 lakh people and indirectly employes lakhs more. Due to the lockdown, it has run into a hostile situation. It was the first sector to be shut down. And it is going to be the last one to be reopened," industry representatives have said, launching an online campaign.

The exhibitors' lobby is of the view that there should be no reason to keep theatres shut down at a time when even railways, malls, bars and metro services have been allowed to resume operations.

"Only paying patrons visit us, unlike other activities where there are no entry tickets. Movie show timings are staggered, thereby ensuring the prevention of crowd build-up. Controlled and regulated entry and exits are ensured by multiplexes and theatres. Availability of ample waiting areas exists," a note from the exhibition industry representatives says.