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MEMBERSHIP

Anyone who has worked on a censored Malayalam movie can join the Union. Members receive legal, financial, and other support when they pay the annual fee on time. If a member fails to pay the fee for three consecutive years, their membership will be revoked, and they will lose all rights, including access to Union financial information and other services. A revoked member may reapply by paying INR 250 and any missed fees, unless the executive committee accepts valid reasons for non-payment, such as health issues, job loss, or accidents.

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The Union is managed by an executive committee elected annually by the general membership. This committee can have up to 17 members, including a President, two Vice Presidents, a General Secretary, two Joint Secretaries, a Treasurer, and other committee members. Additionally, honorary memberships are given to those who contribute to the betterment of cinema workers; however, honorary members cannot exceed one-fifth of the total membership and do not have voting rights.

Benefits

Joining the Union offers many significant benefits for professionals:

  • Stronger Negotiation: Working together with the Union, you can ask for better pay, benefits, and safer working conditions.

  • Legal Help: You get advice and support for work-related legal problems.

  • Improved Work Environment: The Union helps make the workplace safer and more secure for everyone. 

  • Learning Opportunities: The Union provides training and courses to help you improve your skills and advance in your career.

  • Networking: Being in the Union lets you meet and connect with other workers and industry professionals.

  • Advocacy: The Union fights for workers’ rights and works to create better rules and laws for the industry.

  • Support and Solidarity: In tough times, the Union offer help through financial assistance and other support services.

Joining procedures

Eligibility:

Individuals over 18 who have worked in the cinematography department on at least one censored Malayalam cinema are eligible to join.

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Application Process:

  1. Carefully review the union bylaws before applying.

  2. Submit an application agreeing to adhere to the bylaws.

  3. Pay a registration fee of INR 500 and an annual membership fee of INR 500 to the General Secretary.

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Membership Renewal:

Members must pay the annual fee of INR 500 each year and obtain a receipt. Failure to pay for three consecutive years may result in the termination of membership.

FAQs

Q: Who can join the Union, and what is the application process?

Anyone who has worked on a censored Malayalam movie is eligible. To apply, review the union by-laws, complete the membership form, and pay the registration fee of INR 500 along with an annual fee of INR 500. Applications are usually processed within a few business days, and you’ll receive a confirmation once approved.

Q: What support and benefits do members receive, and are there any extra costs?

Members gain access to legal, financial, and other support services, plus industry resources, networking opportunities, and regular updates on union activities. The standard fees cover these benefits; any additional costs for special services or events will be communicated in advance.

Q: What happens if I miss my annual fee payment?

If you miss the annual fee for three consecutive years, your membership will be revoked, and you will lose access to union benefits and information. Reinstatement is possible by paying INR 250 along with any outstanding fees, though the executive committee may show leniency for valid reasons such as health issues or job loss.

Q: How is the Union managed?

The Union is run by an executive committee elected annually from the general membership. This committee, which includes roles such as President, Vice Presidents, General Secretary, Joint Secretaries, Treasurer, and others, oversees the Union’s operations. Active members have voting rights and can participate in general body meetings where key decisions are made.

Q: What is honorary membership?

Honorary memberships are awarded to individuals who make significant contributions to the betterment of cinema workers. Honorary members, who are limited to one-fifth of the total membership, do not have voting rights.

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If you have further questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact our General Secretary or use the contact form on the website.

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