Struggling with Stagnant Wages: How Can Mumbai's Film Industry Workers Get a Raise?

For many years, the wages of the association have not been increased in the Mumbai trade union related to the film industry, making it very difficult for workers to sustain their livelihood nowadays.

Challenges in Increasing Wages

What can be done to increase the payment of the trade union workers? They are daily wage workers and affiliated with the federation of the film industry, but the federation is also not providing assistance.

Steps to Assist Workers

How can we assist the workers, and what are the procedures and authorities we can approach to address this issue that has persisted for more than 12 years with no increment in payment?

​The stagnation of wages for daily wage workers in Mumbai's film industry over the past 12 years is a significant concern, especially considering the rising cost of living. To address this issue, the following steps can be considered:​

Review Current Wage Standards:
As of July 1, 2024, the minimum wage for skilled workers in the film production sector in Maharashtra (Zone I, which includes Mumbai) is ₹14,334 per month, comprising a basic pay of ₹5,700 and a Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA) of ₹8,634. For semi-skilled and unskilled workers, the total minimum wages are ₹13,834 and ₹13,334, respectively. ​

Engage with the Federation:
Although the federation has not been proactive, it remains essential to engage with them. Workers can collectively request formal meetings to discuss wage revisions and express their grievances.​

File a Grievance with the Maharashtra Labour Department:
Workers can lodge complaints regarding wage issues through the Department of Labour's online grievance portal. ​
mahakamgar.maharashtra.gov.in

Contact the Labour Commissioner's Office:
For direct intervention, workers can approach the Labour Commissioner's Office in Mumbai:​
Address: Hutatma Babu Genu Mumbai Girni Kamgar Kaida Bhavan, Senapati Bapat Road, Elphinstone, Mumbai - 400 013
Phone: 022-2430 6717 / 2422 7758 / 2436 0738
Email: mlwb[at]bom7[dot]vsnl[dot]net[dot]in

Seek Legal Assistance:
Consulting with legal experts specializing in labor laws can provide insights into potential legal actions to enforce wage revisions.​

Raise Public Awareness:
Highlighting the issue through media outlets and social platforms can garner public support and pressure relevant authorities to act.