Govt issues SOPs: Film, TV shooting can restart
■ Will cinemas/theatres be allowed to reopen?
The Centre on Sunday announced standard operating procedures (SOPs) for resuming film and television shooting, including measures like social distancing and mandatory use of face covers/masks for cast and crew, except for actors in front of the camera.
The guiding principles and SOPs on preventive measures for media production to contain the spread of Covid-19 were announced by I&B minister Prakash Javadekar.
He said these measures will facilitate resumption of shooting and give employment to scores of people impacted due to the film industry being hit due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The SOPs were finalised after consulting the health and home ministries, Mr Javadekar said.
Shooting of films and TV serials can be started using these SOPs, said Mr Javadekar, sharing details.
Also, in an indication that cinemas and theatres could reopen soon as part of easing the lockdown norms, the SOPs included some do’s and don’ts, like online booking of tickets in theatres using QR codes, physical distancing to be followed while marking seating arrangements in cinema halls, and minimum crowding to be ensured in parking areas. While the government has not yet allowed opening of cinema halls, there are some indications they may be allowed under strict social distancing norms.
The guiding principles also said employees at higher risk — older, pregnant or with underlying medical conditions — should avoid contact with others. Some veteran TV and film actors above 65 raised concerns over not being able to work due to lockdown norms.