Punjabi film industry seeks stronger anti-piracy laws

The Punjabi Film and Television Actors Association (PFTAA), led by its General Secretary Binnu Dhillon, has raised issues concerning cinema piracy, financial assistance for filmmakers, artists’ welfare, and promotion of Punjabi cinema during a meeting with Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The delegation discussed the need for stricter laws against film piracy, with Vaishnaw assuring the members that stringent legal provisions would be introduced to tackle the issue. According to the association, provisions for a punishment of up to seven years were also discussed.

The delegation also raised concerns over the smooth functioning of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) office in Chandigarh, which was established last year. It sought representation from the northern region to ensure filmmakers could obtain certification without unnecessary difficulties.

Promoting Punjabi cinema and theatre across northern India was another key issue discussed during the meeting. The association proposed organising a national-level film festival in Chandigarh or Punjab to provide greater exposure to Punjabi cinema.

PFTAA members also sought increased representation of local artists and theatre personalities in cultural organisations.

Actor Malkeet Rauni highlighted the international reach of Punjabi cinema, saying Punjabi films had audiences across 35 countries. Citing the sports-based film Harjeeta, he said cinema played an important role in taking Punjabi culture and heritage to international audiences.

The delegation also raised the demand for group insurance for artistes and an honorarium for senior artists aged 80 to 85 years who had contributed to preserving Punjabi culture through cinema.

Other proposals included financial assistance from the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) for deserving film projects in Punjab and allocation of programmes to the state with a fixed budget.

The delegation included Binnu Dhillon, Dev Kharoud, Shivendra Mahal, BN Sharma, Malkeet Rauni, Vinod Sharma, Padma Shri awardee Jaspinder Narula, Satinder Satti, Pardeep Joshi, Dr Virender, Sarvpriye Atrey and Sukhjeet Pandher.

The association members thanked the Union Minister for meeting the delegation and discussing issues concerning the Punjabi film industry.