Bengaluru, Feb 3: Considering the hardships faced by Kannada film industry's artistes, producers and workers, it has been decided to allow cinema halls to fill up to 100 percent of their capacity for four weeks on a trial basis, Health and Medical Education Minister K Sudhakar said on Wednesday.

The minister made the announcement after a meeting held as per instructions of Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa with key office-bearers of the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce and representatives from the industry.

As per technical advisory committee's recommendations, the Health department had earlier allowed 50 per cent seatings in cinema halls.

Though Centre had given green signal for 100 per cent seating, the decision was left to the discretion of state governments depending on the situation in each state, he noted.

The film industry had opposed this decision and requested to reconsider it keeping in view the welfare of those employed in this field.

They had also appealed to the Chief Minister to support them in this "difficult time".

"It was discussed and as per the instructions of Chief Minister, the decision has been taken to allow 100 per cent seatings for four weeks.Strict guidelines will be released tomorrow," he said.

"Owners of cinema halls should adhere to these guidelines and people should strictly follow.If any case of COVID-19 is detected, government will have to inevitably revoke the decision," the minister cautioned.

Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.



Bengaluru: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to undertake a visit to the state on the 28th and 29th of April, announced BJP Election Management Committee State Coordinator and State General Secretary V. Sunil Kumar.

During his visit, the Prime Minister will engage with the public through a series of campaign meetings at various locations. On the 28th, Modi will begin with a public address at 10 am in Belagavi, followed by rallies at 12 noon in Sirsi, 2 pm in Davangere, and 4 pm in Bellary.

Continuing his engagement, Modi is slated to convene a meeting in Bagalkot on the 29th of April at 11 am.