L-G urged to formulate cultural policy for UT

Tribune News Service

Jammu, January 12

The Bhartiya Kala Sangam (BKS) said the absence of full-fledged cultural policy has left the artistes suffering in the Union Territory and has led to neglect by erstwhile governments.

Addressing a press conference here today, Ramesh Chib, president, BKS, said Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory possesses legacy of rich culture heritage, folk inheritance in drama, music and dance with a variety of languages spoken by different ethnic groups in various parts.

“Neglect by the erstwhile governments have made a serious dent to the cultural promotion in the UT, which is suffering a lot. Artistes are in the lurch with no source of income and alternative options and hence are being marginalised,” said Ramesh Chib.

Highlighting the charter of demands, Chib urged the Lt-Governor GC Murmu to direct the Culture Department to formulate well-conceived cultural policy in the UT to cater to the overall interests of artistes in different fields. Further, he demanded formation of a regional cinema policy in the UT on lines of neighbouring states. He also demanded exemption of entertainment tax on local / regional films and demanded that Abhinav Theatre and Tagore Hall be allowed to screen regional /local films free of cost. “Doordarshan Kendra, Jammube renamed as Duggar Channel,” said Ramesh.