MACTA crisis eyes solution

The crisis in the Malayalam film industry seems to be resolving, when the warring factions (MACTA led by director Vinayan and MAMTA led by director Siddique) have agreed to hold fresh elections to the MACTA Federation within three months.

The breakthrough in the attempts to find a truce came following crucial talks convened by the Indian Film Employees Confederation (IFEC) and Film Employees Federation of South India (FEFSI) in Chennai on Wednesday. In fact, IFEC held the meet in Chennai to decide on giving trade union status to MACTA.

An ad-hoc committee, comprising members of the factions led by film directors Vinayan and Siddique, and representatives of IFEC and FEFSI, will be formed to resolve the differences. The meeting has also decided to disband the existing executive committees in the federation.

Harikumar and Thmapy Kannanthanam have been elected chairman and general secretary of Malayalam Cine Technicians" Association (MACTA) for 2008-2010. G.S. Vijayan and Joshi Mathew are the new vice-presidents. Jose Thomas, Balachandran Chullikkad and Sabu Pravadas are the new secretaries. Sreemoolanagaram Mohan is the new treasurer.