The government of Karnataka has exempted single-screen cinemas in the state from payment of property tax for the year 2021-22 due to the losses faced by them during the Coronavirus pandemic lockdown. The order for the exemption, dated 7th July, 2021, states that although cinemas might be allowed to be functional in the coming days, they would probably have to shut down again if the third wave strikes. Otherwise also, they may be allowed to operate at only half the capacity.
The concession has come as a major relief to the 630 single-screen cinemas in the state. The state treasury may have to bear a loss of Rs. 9 crore in the fiscal year due to this concession to cinemas.