Actress Shilpa Shinde, best known for Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain, has landed in a after admitting to making false sexual harassment allegations against producer Sanjay Kohli. Recently, on comedian Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa’s podcast, she opened up about what transpired between her and the makers of the show, which led to her filing a false case. Shilpa has been heavily criticised online, with several celebrities, including Hina Khan, coming out in support of the late producer. Amid the backlash, AICWA issued a statement on Friday, June 5, calling for a fair probe and urging Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to intervene.
Shilpa Shinde row escalates
The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) said in an official statement that ‘s reported admission on Bharti and Haarsh’s podcast about allegedly making false sexual harassment allegations against Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain producer Sanjay Kohli is “a matter of serious concern for the entire Bollywood film and television industry.”
The association stated that false sexual harassment allegations could cause severe damage to a person’s reputation, career, family life, and mental well-being. It shared that such accusations could have long-lasting consequences not only for the accused but also for their loved ones.
“The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) believes that if a person knowingly makes false allegations, it not only harms the accused but also undermines the credibility of genuine victims who come forward seeking justice. Such incidents can create doubt around legitimate complaints and make it more difficult for real survivors of harassment within the Bollywood film industry to be heard and believed,” it added.
Shilpa Shinde
AICWA writes to CM Fadnavis
At the same time, the body stressed that not all women make false allegations and noted that many women in the entertainment industry have genuinely faced harassment and exploitation. It said that these victims deserve support, respect, and justice, and that the actions of one individual should not be used to question the experiences of genuine survivors.
AICWA also urged Devendra Fadnavis to ensure a fair and thorough examination of the matter. “If it is established that false allegations were knowingly made, strict action should be taken in accordance with the law. Accountability is essential to protect both innocent individuals from false accusations and genuine victims seeking justice,” added the body. It concluded by stating that truth, fairness, and justice must prevail and that both false allegations and genuine harassment are serious issues and should be dealt with appropriately under the law.