FEFSI announces strike over opposition to new film workers' union

Film Employees Federation of South India (FEFSI) has raised concerns over the creation of a new film workers’ association, expressing opposition to the move. R.K. Selvamani, the President of FEFSI, announced that on May 14, 2025, a one-day strike would be observed, resulting in the suspension of all film, television, and production work.R.K. Selvamani defends FEFSI’s achievementsDuring a press conference in Chennai, R.K.Selvamani explained the progress made by FEFSI since it assumed leadership in 2017. He also addressed accusations raised by Tamil Film Producers Association Secretary, Radha Krishnan. "When FEFSI Workers Society was founded in 2010, we had no revenue or expenses, but today, through the combined efforts of our workers, we’ve saved ₹15 crore. The government provided 100 acres of land, with 65 acres designated for constructing housing for the workers of the Film Employees Federation of South India," he shared. He emphasized that no new government orders have been issued to establish any other film worker organizations.Criticism of the new unionFEFSI, which encompasses 23 unions, has been a prominent association for over 55 years and currently serves 25,000 members. However, there has been a recent attempt by some individuals to form a new film workers’ union. R.K. Selvamani criticized this move, stating that the objective of these individuals seemed to be undermining the workers’ well-being. He firmly expressed opposition to the creation of such an association.FEFSI protests: No filming activities on May 14, 2025In response, FEFSI has decided to hold a one-day protest and strike on May 14, 2025. On this day, no filming, including movie and television productions, will take place, and both pre- and post-production activities will also be halted. The protest will be held from 9 AM to 1 PM at Rajarathinam Hall in Ezhumbur, Chennai.