Bengaluru: The Karnataka government is considering imposing a cess of up to 2 percent on movie tickets and OTT subscription fees to support cinema and cultural artists in the state. The Karnataka Cine and Cultural Activists (Welfare) Bill, 2024, was introduced in the assembly on July 19, outlining the establishment of a welfare fund aimed at benefiting cine and cultural activists.

Key Features of the Bill

Welfare Fund Creation:

  • The bill proposes the creation of ‘The Karnataka Cine and Cultural Activists Social Security and Welfare Fund’.
  • This fund will support cine and cultural activists within Karnataka.

Cine and Cultural Activists Welfare Cess:

  • A cess ranging from 1 to 2 percent will be imposed on cinema tickets, OTT subscription fees, and revenue from related establishments.
  • The exact rate will be notified by the government and will be revised every three years.

Collection and Utilization:

  • The government will collect the cess and transfer it to the Karnataka Cine and Cultural Activists’ Welfare Board.
  • The Labour Department is currently working on the modalities for collecting the cess on OTT subscriptions.

Governance and Administration:

  • The Welfare Board will include key officials such as the Minister-in-charge of the Labour Department, the Additional Chief Secretary/Principal Secretary/Secretary of the Labour Department, the Labour Commissioner, and 17 government-nominated members, including cine workers.

Beneficiaries

Cine and Cultural Activists:

  • The bill defines cine and cultural activists as individuals employed in the cinema field in various roles, including artists (actors, musicians, dancers) and technical, supervisory, or artistic positions.
  • It also covers those engaged in government-declared activities under this Act.

Recognized Institutions:

  • Activists recognized by government-approved academies, such as the Karnataka Chalanachithra Academy, Karnataka Nataka Academy, Karnataka Sangeetha Nruthya Academy, Karnataka Janapada Academy, Karnataka Lalithakala Academy, Karnataka Yakshagana Academy, and Karnataka Bayalata Academy, will be covered under this bill.

This initiative reflects Karnataka’s commitment to supporting its cultural and artistic community by creating a sustainable fund to ensure their welfare and security.