Jaya Bachchan Voices Concerns Over Bollywood’s Neglect in Union Budget 2025 Amid Parliamentary Debate

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 13, 2025, Delhi:  In the ongoing budget discussions in the Delhi Parliament, veteran actress and Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan has raised significant concerns about the lack of attention given to the film industry in the Union Budget for 2025. Although she stepped away from acting years ago and prefers to stay out of the limelight, Bachchan has now taken a stand for the future of Bollywood.

The actress-turned-politician, known for her usually composed demeanor, became visibly upset during her speech in Parliament on Wednesday. She directed pointed questions at the government, expressing her frustration with the treatment of the film industry. Bachchan argued that Bollywood is often exploited for political gain, yet remains overlooked when it comes to meaningful support. "Bollywood is always used for vested interests, but in real time, Bollywood is neglected," she stated passionately.

In her impassioned remarks, Bachchan highlighted Bollywood’s substantial contribution to the Indian economy, particularly its tax revenue. “Bollywood pays the highest tax in India, yet they are killing the film industry,” she declared, her voice brimming with emotion. She raised alarm over the decline of single-screen cinemas, many of which are being shut down, and pointed to the rising costs of movie tickets as a key factor driving audiences away from theatres.

Bachchan took aim at the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on cinema tickets, urging the government to consider removing it to help revive the industry. “Watching movies has become so expensive for everyone. Now stop GST on these. Do you want to kill the cinema industry?” she asked, demanding immediate attention to the issue.

Her call for a thorough discussion on the matter was clear as she concluded with a plea for the government to recognize the significant role of the cinema industry in Indian culture and economy. “You are completely ignoring the cinema industry,” Bachchan lamented, urging for a dedicated debate on the future of Bollywood in the upcoming budget sessions.

Her remarks have sparked conversations across the nation, underscoring the need for government action to protect and promote India’s film industry.