Guwahati: In a bold expression of solidarity, film organisations in Assam have joined hands with the State Government to defy outlawed United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA)'s threat to ban screening of Hindi films, which if enforced could ring the death bell of the already crippled cinema industry.

A steering committee comprising 15 representatives from all sections of the industry, spearheaded by Eastern India Motion Pictures Association, has decided to "continue with their usual business" but has also appealed to the insurgent outfit to review its decision on the proposed ban.

"We are left with no alternative but to carry on with our usual business but the ULFA should also review its decision regarding the ban as it will directly affect the survival of the film industry in the state," EIMPA chairman C S Narayan said.

The State Government has also come out in full support of the film industry's decision to continue screening of Hindi films with Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi directing stepping up of security in and around cinema halls.

"The question of preventing Hindi movies from being screened does not arise and they will continue as usual and if any cinema hall owner demands additional security, it will definitely be provided," Gogoi said.

PTI