The Tollywood strike declared by the APFCC has affected the livelihood of 14,000-odd workers of Andhra Pradesh Film Employees Federation. The most affected are the 10 unions comprising lower-rung workers including production assistants, light-men, carpenters, junior artistes and painters.
"We are aware of the sufferings of 8,000 daily wage earners and are trying our best to end the impasse. We have sent a letter to the Chamber urging them to fix a date for discussions," said Kotagiri Venkateswar Rao, president, APFEF.
For the last two weeks, all the major studios have worn deserted looks. "Barring filmmaker Dasari Narayana Rao, who distributed free groceries to 2,000-odd workers, no one came forward to help us," the junior artistes maintained. Understanding the gloomy situation, the union sought the intervention of Tiwari, president, All India Film Employees` Confederation and held discussions with union members from other states.
"The issue of sharing fighters between two regions was an internal matter and we have thrashed it out between ourselves. The Chamber is dragging its feet for no reason," said Mr Rajeshwar Reddy, general secretary, APFEF.
However, the producers` council faulted the federation`s inability to sack fighters who attacked the kin of a stunt master on December 8.
