Mamta Banerjee's bid to save failing Bengali cinema? Multiplexes mandated to screen at least one regional movie daily

In a bid to promote Bengali movies, the West Bengal government issued a notification that mandates every multiplex in the state to start showcasing at least one Bengali movie per day. 

As per the government order, this will be the norm throughout the year and the movies are to be mandatorily screened between 3 pm to 9 pm.

"In every Cinema hall, and in all screens (each screen) of every multiplex situated in this State, 365 prime time shows/screenings of Bengali films shall mandatorily be held throughout the year, with at least one Bengali show per day for all 365 days during the year. Explanation: Prime time shows shall mean shows held between 3:00 PM to 9.00 PM." mentioned the government notification. 

This move by the government is taken to encourage the Bengali film industry and will remain in force until further orders. 

Considering the plight of the Bengali film industry, previously, the state government had introduced incentives for Bengali film production. The recent order regarding the compulsory screening of Bengali movies might raise concerns with the theatre owners over the flexibility in scheduling. 

The government order has seen a mixed response from social media users. While some have lauded the move by the state government, others have called it dictatorial. 

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