Oct 01, 2026 12:10pm IST
AICWA President Suresh Shyamlal Gupta Meets Deputy Municipal Commissioner Prashant Gaikwad to Oppose 567% Entertainment Tax Proposal on AC Halls
Suresh Shyamlal Gupta, the President of the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has met Prashant Gaikwad, Deputy Municipal Commissioner (Municipal Commissioner's Office) to share thoughts on the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) proposed hike plans for entertainment tax. He previously met Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to put an end to the plan.
As per a mid-day report, Gaikwad spoke about the proposal being put to table back in 2017 but that it was delayed since. During their chat, Gupta explained that out of 100 movies being made today, only two were earning profits, and added that many producers even inflate their box-office numbers.
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They discussed the possible negative effects of the proposed hike, where the AICWA head spoke about the adverse effect it may have on “theatre owners, distributors, cine workers, and the audience”. He strongly worded his disapproval, “It seems the BMC and the government want to shut down theatres so that OTT platforms can benefit."
Gaikwad is said to have agreed to put forth the AICWA's concerns to BMC Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide, who is also planning a meeting with Gupta. The objection has reached Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, and leader of the Urban Development Ministry. AICWA aims to appeal the proposal and save “the livelihoods of families,” who risk unemployment. They plan to protest if needed.
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The proposed hike could increase the tax on AC cinema halls and multiplexes by 570%, which will make it go from ₹60 to ₹400 per ticket, in non-AC ones from ₹45 to ₹200, and from ₹50 to ₹100 for performing arts shows, including plays and live concerts.
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