Maharashtra government directive to multiplexes cannot be treated as 'compulsory mandate': NCP

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Wednesday said that the directive by the Maharashtra government to multiplexes to show Marathi films during the prime time slot will promote the state language, however adding that the order cannot be treated as a 'compulsory mandate' to exhibiters and film-makers.

"This is a good suggestion by the Chief Minister of Maharashtra in order to promote Marathi language. But it cannot be treated as a compulsory mandate to the exhibiters and the film-makers because of the commercial angle... There are a number of other stake holders who are involved in this; therefore, you cannot compel them to behave in a manner as the Chief Minister pleases," NCP leader Majeed Memon said.

"They have their fundamental rights of earning their livelihood. Therefore, I think they may be persuaded or requested to do so, but only in best interest of promotion of Marathi language," he added.

On Tuesday, Maharashtra Culture Minister Vinod Tawde defended the government's decision saying it had been taken to promote Marathi movies.

"We will talk to Marathi film producers and multiplex owners to decide on two show timings to show Marathi films, out of which they can choose one. Prime time is the time when all the members of the family can come to watch a movie, like the 6 pm to 9 pm slot," Tawde said.

The government is also considering making the screening of a documentary on Dadasaheb Phalke mandatory before every movie.