Home / Arts and Entertainment / Assam Theatre Faces Crisis: HC Seeks Govt Action
Assam Theatre Faces Crisis: HC Seeks Govt Action
23 Sep
Summary
- Gauhati HC directed Assam govt to respond to a petition.
- Petition seeks preservation and regulation of mobile theatre.
- Existing 2010 Act's provisions remain unimplemented.
The Gauhati High Court has ordered the Assam government to address a petition advocating for the preservation and regulation of the state's distinctive mobile theatre tradition. A response is required by November 25. The Public Interest Litigation (PIL) aims to secure governmental action for the protection and global recognition of Assam's "Bhramyaman Theatre."
This mobile theatre, celebrated for bringing live drama, music, and dance to various locales using cinematic staging, has reportedly faced significant challenges in recent years. Concerns include the absence of a dedicated policy and statutory framework to govern safety standards and performance quality.
Advocates for the art form point to the non-implementation of the Assam Mobile Theatre (Regulation and Artists' Welfare Fund) Act, 2010. Allegations include a lack of mandatory troupe registration, opaque welfare fund operations, no grievance redressal system, and insufficient enforcement of safety measures. Temporary government grants have been deemed insufficient.