Telangana Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkata Reddy has clarified that he has nothing to do with the recent ticket price hikes for big-ticket films.
He stated that he had earlier advised film personalities not to approach him regarding ticket hikes.
Komatireddy said he is no longer concerned about the film industry. He added that after Pushpa-2, he clearly told film representatives not to meet him, and since then, no one has approached him.
Expressing regret, Komatireddy said granting permissions for Pushpa-2 was a mistake. He recalled feeling deeply disturbed after a woman lost her life during the film's premiere.
He also mentioned that he personally helped the boy who was injured in the stampede. Reiterating his stand, Komatireddy said he has no role in ticket price hikes for recent releases.
Earlier as well, Komatireddy had expressed dissatisfaction over not being informed about Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's meeting with Telugu film personalities.
Amid strong rumours of Komatireddy being removed from the Cabinet to make way for his brother Komatireddy Rajagopala Reddy, the minister appears to have spoken openly about his concerns.
The episode highlights visible discord between the Chief Minister and Komatireddy over matters related to the TFI. Revanth Reddy has been directly engaging with film celebrities on industry issues.
The Telangana government recently approved ticket price hikes for Raja Saab and Mana Sankara Vara Prasad. It is also notable that the leading man of Mana Sankara Vara Prasad, Chiranjeevi, personally met CM Revanth Reddy.