In a Government Order (G.O.) passed on Monday, the Tamil Nadu Government has permitted the theatres and multiplexes to run with 100 per cent occupancy, with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) followed.

The order further said, "On considering the recommendation from the expert team of doctors and as per the directive of the Government of India, the State Government has extended the lockdown till the midnight of 31/1/2021 with various relaxations and certain restrictions". Further it said, "Based on the decrease in COVID-19 day by day, the Theatre Owners Association have represented to the Government to increase the seating capacity in cinemas/theatres/multiplexes".

Accordingly, the Tamil Nadu Government has made the decision to increase the seating capacity from the prevailing 50pc to 100pc with no changes in the existing Standard Operating Procedures. Further in order to create awareness among the spectators, the precautionary measures of COVID-19 should be screened during showtime, the GO added.

As a part of unlock measures, the Central Government has allowed the theatres to run from 10/11/2020, with SOPs followed.

It has to be noted that actor 'Thalapathy' Vijay had met the Chief Minister last week and reports said that the actor had also requested the CM to permit 100pc occupancy in theatres.