Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Dec 25: The Jammu and Kashmir Radio and Television Artists, Freelance Producers and Directors Association today demanded the revival of Doordarshan’s drama section and the release of pending payments worth Rs 31 crore.
A spokesperson for an association highlighted that drama productions, which were iconic in Doordarshan’s early years, have been abandoned. “Nearly 2,000 approved drama artists in Jammu and Kashmir have been left without work. This closure has destroyed our careers,” he said.
He recalled how regular bookings for Urdu and Kashmiri plays and serials once provided financial stability. “I did not need a job when I had six bookings a month-two plays and weekly serials. Today, I am struggling to survive,” he said.
He also criticized the neglect of Kashmiri-language programs, pointing out that productions in Dogri continue in Jammu, while Kashmiri content has been discontinued. “Even traditional New Year programs have been replaced with old telecasts, despite funds being available,” he said. He added attempts to take up these issues with station authorities have failed due to the station head’s inability to understand local languages like Kashmiri and Urdu.
The spokesperson highlighted delayed payments for past work. He said many programs produced between 2008 and 2010 remain unaired and unpaid. He described a pattern of court battles to secure dues. “I produced 28 episodes in 2008, but payments were only released after a court order. Even then, only acting fees were paid, while production fees were ignored,” he said.
The spokesperson added that Rs. 31 crore in payments are still pending, affecting many artists, some of whom have passed away, leaving their families to claim the dues.
He said the demands include reopening the drama section, resuming Urdu and Kashmiri programs, airing shelved productions, and ensuring timely payments. “Doordarshan’s neglect is wiping out our cultural identity. We need immediate action to restore Kashmir’s heritage and support its artists,” the spokesperson said.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
