Uploading movies to the internet without permission will result in a fine of 5 lakhs and imprisonment.

The government is prepared to increase fines and impose prison sentences against individuals who release films to the internet or social media without the prior permission of film producers. Due to the inadequacy of the current fine of five thousand rupees imposed for such offenses under existing laws, it has now been proposed to increase it to a minimum of five hundred thousand rupees and to make legal amendments to allow for a two-year suspended sentence or a one-month prison sentence.

A special discussion was recently held at the National Film Corporation premises regarding the massive crisis faced by the film industry. Over twenty-five film producers and directors from the country participated in this meeting, which was chaired by Mr. Sudath Mahadiulwewa, Chairman of the Corporation, and its General Manager.

It was revealed that currently, there is a serious trend of films being uploaded to various websites, OTT platforms, and social networks like Facebook without any fear or shame and without the creators' approval. It was pointed out that while some individuals earn thousands of rupees through these illegal activities, the existing fine against them is very small, leading offenders to continuously disregard the law and engage in this illicit trade.

It has been decided to take legal action jointly with the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Digital Affairs to swiftly control this existing situation. Accordingly, a crucial discussion is scheduled to be held next week, after this weekend, with the participation of the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Digital Affairs, and the Minister of Culture. It is expected that the enforcement of this new legal system will prevent film piracy and have a significant impact on the advancement of the entire film industry.