Date:07/05/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/05/07/stories/2005050702121700.htm

Back AP film chamber sets up cell to curb piracy

Our Bureau

Hyderabad , May 6

HIT hard by piracy, the Andhra Pradesh Film Chamber of Commerce has started the Anti-video Piracy Cell to curb the menace.

The cell is equipped with the toll-free number 1600 425 0111 and 98487-27272. Filmgoers and others can dial these numbers to tip the cell off incidence of piracy.

Claimed to be the first-of-its-kind in the country, the chamber had roped in 60 former police officers to keep tabs on the offenders. All the cell members would get mobile phones.

Mr Kesava Reddy, a former Superintendent of Police, would head the cell as its Chief Coordinator.

Addressing a press conference here on Friday, Mr M. Shyamprasad Reddy and Mr K.S. Rama Rao, the two senior film producers, said the film industry would bear the costs of running the cell.

Acting on requests by the film industry, the State Government had assured that it would take stern action against who indulged in piracy. The Government had issued a gazette notification to this effect.