ESIC initiating action against film producers

Authorities of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) have started initiating action against film producers for not registering with the Labour Department and failing to extend ESI benefits to film workers.

Film and television workers became eligible for Provident Fund and ESI from 2013. Production houses were given time till March 31, 2014 to register themselves. With the law coming into force, production houses have become “principal employers”. As production houses had failed to comply with the notices issued, the process of initiating action had commenced, said a top ESIC official.

Industry sources disclosed that notices had been issued to over 40 producers and production houses. According to new rules, film workers come under the purview of the ESI and are eligible to avail of benefits with the contribution of employer and the government.

Film and television workers became eligible for Provident Fund and ESI from 2013