Violence: MACTA elections postponed

The proposed fresh elections in the Malayalam Cine Technicians Association (MACTA) have been postponed after a fracas at MACTA office in Kochi. A committee formed by the Indian Film Employees Confederation (IFEC) at a Chennai meet held in June (to resolve the recent battle and split between the members in the Malayalam film industry) is to conduct this election.

The supporters of two factions, led by director Vinayan and Siddique, resorted to mindless violence at the office of MACTA during filing of nominations. Three people, including a policeman, were injured during the fight.

The new election schedule is expected to be announced soon. Election was scheduled for 6th and 7th September. 30 prominent members of the associations are contesting on two different panels, headed by directors Vinayan and Siddique. The final voters list will be published by the 30th of this month.

Meanwhile, industry members said the forthcoming election in MACTA had lost its meaning as many major directors and producers had formed a separate union. "Following the exit of major producers, directors and actors from MACTA and the formation of a rival union, the postponement is a storm in a teacup as there is nothing to fight for," a top director said.

However, industry sources say that Vinayan may finally emerge as a winner when MACTA elections are held, as a large number of the grassroot level workers and Film Employees Association of South India (FEASI) are backing him.