The Bombay High Court on Tuesday, July 21, asked the Maharashtra Government the basis for the rule to bar cast and crew above the age of 65 on the sets of films and television.
The question about data and age parameters were posed by a bench of Justices Shahrukh Kathawalla and Riyaz Chagla while hearing a petition by TV and film artist Pramod Pandey. Pandey had earlier challenged the state government against the guidelines on the age for the media and entertainment industry under the "Mission Begin Initiative" propagated by the government.
Poornima Kantharia, the government pleader, responded by stating that the age limit was fixed according to the lockdown circulars. However, the judges pointed out that there were no restrictions with regards to age in private offices or those who are travelling in public transportation. The judges further asked how an elderly person over the age of 65 was expected to lead a dignified life if the means were taken away from them.
The bench also said that the government in its affidavit should state whether any data or statistics were taken into consideration before authorizing the guidelines which prohibit cast/crew members above the age of 65 years from attending studio/shooting sites. It also asked the government to enunciate in its affidavit whether a similar rule is made applicable to citizens who are allowed to use public transportation or attend funerals or marriage functions. The court further posted the petition for hearing on July 24.
The entertainment industry which happens to be a huge aspect of the city of Mumbai is also one of the worst-hit industries during this coronavirus induced lockdown. While the shooting has resumed with regards to certain projects, heavy restrictions have been placed by the government to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
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