November 12, 2003	Wednesday	Ramazan 16, 1424

GUWAHATI, Nov 11: Separatist groups on Tuesday renewed a threat to enforce a ban on Bollywood films in India’s restive northeast, arguing the films have a negative effect on local culture.

The warning sparked fear among the film industry in India’s northeastern states, which have been wracked by decades of insurgencies.

At least 11 separatist groups have called for the ban on the screening of Hindi-language films, arguing that “traditional ways” were under threat from increasing western and Indian influences.

The separatists have not imposed a bar on Western films, which remain popular in a region where English is more widely spoken than Hindi.

“It has been resolved that all possible measures will be taken up to put the ban into effect,” a joint statement by militant groups said.

“We urge the people of the region to adhere to our declaration not out of fear of repercussions, but keeping in mind this grave issue as one of the components of survival of our respective nationalities,” it said.

The statement said the ban would come into effect on Saturday in five of the seven northeastern states. In the state of Mizoram no rebel groups officially exist.—AFP