Kochi: The Event Management Association Kerala (EMAK) has called on the state government to urgently intervene in the current Public Performance of Music licensing tariff structure, citing arbitrary fee demands by private agencies as a threat to thousands of livelihoods. 

EMAK says private agencies are imposing inconsistent fees and licences for public music performances, including at private events such as weddings, often applying rulings intended for commercial use. The association has demanded the establishment of a transparent and unified system to regulate these charges.

"The unacceptable harm caused by these fee demands requires immediate action," said Raju Kannampuzha, President of EMAK. "This meeting will collaboratively confront the issue, educate stakeholders, and expose these unlawful predatory practices that directly threaten thousands of livelihoods."

Key demands from EMAK include standardising tariff rates, preventing frequent price hikes, and ensuring that any changes receive government approval. The association also seeks a unified single-window taxation system and requests that the state government address licence fee reductions for non-luxury event venues, in addition to urging intervention with the Central Government for a long-term solution.

To mobilise the industry against these unauthorised fee demands and pursue a legal remedy, EMAK has announced a major industry gathering on 4 December at 3:00 PM at the Chakolas Pavilion in Kalamassery. The meeting will include Ankur Kalra, General Secretary of the national association EEMA, EMAK members, event management companies, hotel and convention centre owners, and artists.

Representatives from EMAK, including President Raju Kannampuzha, General Secretary Bahanan K Areeckal, and Treasurer Praveen Chandran, outlined the organisation’s concerns during a press conference at the Ernakulam Press Club.