Multiplex Association of India (MAI) requests Delhi govt to reopen cinema halls

Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, Mr. Manish Sisodia met cinema owners and members of the Multiplex Association of India (MAI), today morning. In the meeting, the delegation requested the Deputy Chief Minister’s intervention in the reopening of Delhi cinemas.

The delegation highlighted the adverse economic situation being faced by the film and cinema industry due to Covid induced multiple shutdowns since March 2020. Deputy Chief Minister was informed that the Government’s decision to shut down cinemas in Delhi while enforcing the ‘yellow’ alert of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has caused massive uncertainty leading to big film releases, such as JERSEY, being canceled.

The MAI delegation urged the Minister to give cinemas equal treatment with comparable industries and institutions and emphasized that the cinemas have already demonstrated an ability to operate safely for the public and employees through the usage of enhanced ventilation systems, enhanced hygiene, and other safety protocols.

In a statement, Mr. Ajay Bijli, Chairman, PVR Limited said, “We fully understand the challenges at the Government’s end in these tough times, however, instead of closing the cinemas, we would urge the Delhi Government to consider introducing ‘double vaccination requirement’ to enter cinemas, as is the case in some other states. Alternatively, the seating capacity restriction of 50% can be reintroduced at cinemas.”

Deputy Chief Minister assured the delegation that the matter would be taken up with Delhi Disaster Management Authority Task Force and other Government officers.