Telugu Film Producers Open Doors to Non-Union Workers Amid Wage Dispute

The standoff between the Telugu Film Industry Employees’ Federation and film producers has taken a new turn. After weeks of negotiations over wage hikes, the Federation recently warned that all shoots under its purview would be halted from August 4 unless a 30% salary increase for workers is implemented.

In response, the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce, which represents producers across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, convened a meeting and issued a significant statement on August 4 in Hyderabad.

Producers have unanimously decided to allow the hiring of skilled technicians and workers, regardless of whether they are members of any union. The Chamber explained that this move comes in response to growing concerns over union practices, particularly the hefty membership fees that aspiring workers must pay to secure a place in the industry.

According to the producers, some unions are reportedly charging membership fees running into lakhs of rupees, which they say is unfair and keeps many talented individuals from joining the workforce. “Why should someone have to pay lakhs just to get a job in the film industry?” the Chamber questioned in its statement.

Producers stressed that the industry should remain open to anyone with the skill and passion to work, without financial barriers or restrictive entry requirements.