Film Industry Is Being Exploited for Personal Gain”: Jaya Bachchan Criticizes Government in Rajya Sabha, Calls for Mercy

Veteran actor and Samajwadi Party member Jaya Bachchan made an impassioned plea to the government on Tuesday, urging them to show “mercy” towards the film industry, which is grappling with rising costs and the closure of single-screen theatres. Speaking during the General Discussion on the Union Budget 2025-26 in the Rajya Sabha, Bachchan accused the government of neglecting the industry, warning that its very survival is at risk. Her comments come shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting of the WAVES Advisory Board, aimed at positioning India as a global entertainment hub.

Jaya Bachchan’s Concerns for the Film Industry

Bachchan expressed deep concern over the difficulties faced by daily wage workers in the industry and the impact of high GST rates on the closure of single-screen theatres. “One industry has been totally ignored by you, as past governments have done. But today, you have taken it to the next level. You have completely overlooked the film and entertainment industry because you only use it for your own purposes,” she stated, emphasizing the industry’s role as a vital cultural bridge connecting India to the world.

Allegations of Targeting Cinema

The actor-turned-politician further alleged that the cinema sector is being unfairly targeted, urging Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to address the issue seriously. “I am speaking on behalf of my film industry and making a request to this House for the audio-visual industry: please spare them. Please have some mercy. You are attempting to kill this industry. Please do not let it happen,” Bachchan implored, calling for concrete proposals to ensure the industry’s survival, which she described as “very difficult” and in need of immediate attention.

WAVE Summit and Industry Disconnect

Bachchan’s plea coincides with the recent WAVE Summit, where PM Modi engaged with notable figures from the entertainment industry, including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and AR Rahman, to discuss India’s potential as a global entertainment hub. Her call for support highlights a growing disconnect between the government and the challenges faced by the film industry.