The President of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has sounded the alarm over the deteriorating conditions of film workers in Bollywood, warning that the industry could shut down if things don't improve.
FWICE President B.N. Tiwari, whose organisation represents thousands of technicians and crew members, said many workers are facing a tough time due to fewer jobs, delayed payments, and long working hours.
Tiwari highlighted the issue of payment delays in projects for streaming platforms and OTT giants, saying payments sometimes come months later, and by then, the company or producer becomes difficult to trace.
He claimed that many workers are being made to work 20 hours without receiving even their basic eight-hour payment, forcing them to accept lower pay because they need work and have to feed their families.
Tiwari warned that if the situation continues, the film industry will shut down, and people will take to the streets.
