Even though actor Vijay met the CM over the same issue, the order came after Tamil Theatres and Multiplex Owners Association's request.
Following the order, the theatres, cinemas, and multiplexes will be permitted to screen movies with full capacity by following all the Standard Operating Procedure. “In order to create awareness among spectators, precautionary measures for COVID-19 shall also be screened during the showtime,” the state government’s GO issued on Jan 4 read.
In Nov. 2020, the central government had granted permission to operate cinema halls with fifty percent capacity by strictly following the SOPs.
On Dec. 28, 2020, Kollywood actor Vijay met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi Palanisamy, requesting him to remove the cap of 50% seating in Cinema halls, The Hindu reported. The CM's office team later confirmed that the meeting took place at Chief Minister’s residence on Dec. 27. The meeting took place ahead of Vijay's movie Master’s released around Pongal.
Those in the film fraternity welcomed the move by the state government. However, some took to social media expressing fear that the relaxation could trigger a second wave of COVID-19.
Some social media users also slammed the government, stating that it is a “selfish move” by the state government, which has been taken, hoping actor Vijay and his fans would extend support to the government during assembly elections.
Therefore, even though actor Vijay met the Chief Minister requesting him to increase the occupancy in theatres, it would be incorrect to say without any proof that the nod came because of the actor, as the government notification read that the decision came after a request from Tamil Theatres and Multiplex Owners Association.
The COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to a lot of potentially dangerous misinformation. For reliable advice on COVID-19 including symptoms, prevention and available treatment, please refer to the World Health Organisation or your national healthcare authority.
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