FWICE: Massive raids will be conducted in and around Mumbai

Senior members of FWICE to conduct routine raids to ensure that the industry gets second Sunday of every month off

Producers are yet to renew their memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), but the workers' body claims that one of their demands — compulsory holiday on second Sunday of every month — has been accepted unofficially. To ensure that members of all 22 bodies of the FWICE are rested on that particular day, senior members of the federation will conduct raids on sets across the city.

A film shoot in progress. Pic/Satej Shinde

A source says, "Though signing of the MoU has been inordinately delayed, the federation wants to ensure that the second Sunday holiday rule is implemented."

Interestingly, around 25 to 30 cars packed with FWICE members will move around the city as part of the inspection on April 10. "Massive raids will be conducted in and around Mumbai. If any member affiliated to the federation is found working, they will be requested to pack up and go home," says the source and adds, "Calls will also be made to different parts of India to ensure that no films or TV shows are being shot on April 10."

Dilip Pithwa, general secretary of FWICE, says, "The producers had agreed to the second Sunday off plan from April 2016. We will try and implement the rule even though the final MoU, which is being delayed, is yet to be formed. Our members will inspect sets in Mumbai."

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