Centre directs J&K UT to work on cultural policy

BOX: Petition demands tax exemption

* In the petition, Bhartiya Kala Sangam president Ramesh Chib had demanded setting up of a regional cinema in J&K on the analogy of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, where the government provided subsidy for the promotion of films and theatre which reflected the local ethos

* It urged that exemption be provided on the entertainment tax on the local and regional films on the basis of other states

Vikram Sharma

Tribune News Service

Jammu, February 17

The Ministry of Home Affairs has directed the Secretary, Culture, J&K, to take appropriate action for the establishment of a regional cinema and a cultural policy for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

In a petition dated February 23, 2019, filed by Ramesh Chib, he had sought establishment of a regional cinema and a cultural policy for J&K. The MHA, in its reply dated February 4, 2020, has directed the Secretary to take suitable action.

Chib, who is the president of the Bhartiya Kala Sangam, said he and his NGO along with other artists of J&K had been pursuing the case with many departments in the erstwhile state and at the Centre. He said the recent MHA direction to the UT had kindled hope.

“It is unfortunate that no attention was paid to the regional cinema and other cultural pursuits of Jammu and Kashmir, which has a rich and diverse cultural heritage. The lack of a cultural policy has discouraged cultural organisations, producers, directors, writers and artistes, who are dedicated to the promotion and development of the local talent and culture,” said Chib.

In the petition, Chib had demanded setting up of a regional cinema in J&K on the analogy of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, where the government provided subsidy for the promotion of films and theatre which reflected the local ethos.

The petition urged that Abhinav Theatre in Jammu and Tagore Hall in Srinagar be allowed to screen the regional films free of cost to accommodate the local viewership. It urged that exemption be provided on the entertainment tax on the local and regional films on the basis of other states.

“The Doordarshan Kendra in Jammu is deficient of staff, funds and cameramen.It should be named Duggar Channel and upgraded as a satellite channel, besides increasing the strength of the channel with adequate staff and equipment,” he said.