The controversy surrounding GO 35 slashing the ticket rates in theatres in Andhra Pradesh seems to be unending. It is known that despite the repeated requests from the Tollywood stars, producers, distributors, theatre owners, and exhibitors, the AP government led by CM Jagan Mohan Reddy decided to have its way. The government banned benefit shows, put a cap on the number of shows, and shockingly fixed Rs 5 as ticket rates.
Few exhibitors and theatre owners approached the High Court which ruled in their favor allowing an increase in ticket rates for a week. However, their happiness was short-lived as the AP government approached the High Court and filed a counter. The AP High Court posted the case for hearing on Monday and in the meantime, the AP government passed a new GO to crush Tollywood.
The GO no 142 controls the sale of tickets in theatres through an online portal monitored by the AP government, The portal will be run by Andhra Pradesh Film Development Corporation (APFDC), The portal will be operational from the first week of January.