MOU - A boon or a curse for the Actors?

The Memorandum of Association (MOU) signed between the CINTAA (Cine and TV Artiste Association) and Indian Film and TV Producers Council (IFTPA) is becoming a cause of worry for the actors as well as for the producers. As per the norms set in the MOU, the contract bids the actors for a long term association with the show for at least three years and also makes it mandatory for the actors to sign the attendance register. With the strict norm, the producers can charge a penalty and deduct from their payments who report late on the sets.

While many actors do not abide by the rule of associating with the show for three years as they feel 3 years is too long. Well, to understand the sides of actors and as well as of the producers we spoke to  prominent actors and an esteemed producer who have been associated with the industry for over 10 years and are still doing great on TV.

Sushant Singh who excels in his work and currently is seen hosting Life OK's crime based show Savdhaan India @ 11 says that the MOU is totally unjustified.

Versatile and popular actor Hiten Tejwani who has done several shows on TV says that it should be completely left upon the actors to decide whether they want to do a show for three years or whatever period of years. I am sure that it has been amended from the point of view of an actor also and from the producers also so to know it much better I am yet to read it. Because if an actor signs the MOU and is the show is not going for three years then what happens in that case? Perhaps if the show lasts for one year and the actors also does well then it's a good deal. I feel it's not a one sided decision as the actor should also get a chance to decided whether it should be for 3 years or for a year, or else it can be decided mutually but it can't be straight away for three years.

The well known producer cum actor J D Majethia says the MOU has been directed considering many aspects. It is amended for the actors who are disciplined, hardworking and looking forward to make a mark in this industry. It has been directed to make our industry organized and work in a better way.