‘Let truth prevail’: MAAK steps in as Rahul Banerjee death sparks national concern

Kolkata: The West Bengal Motion Picture Artists’ Forum has filed a First Information Report (FIR) at the Regent Park Police Station against the production house behind the television show Bhole Baba Par Karega, seeking a detailed investigation into the death of actor Rahul Arunoday Banerjee.

The issue has also received support from organisations beyond West Bengal. The Movie Artist Association of Keralam (MAAK) issued a statement demanding a fair, unbiased and transparent investigation, urging authorities to ensure that no aspect of the case is overlooked. The organisation also cautioned against misinformation and called on the media to report responsibly.

Banerjee died on March 29 after reportedly drowning during the shooting of the show near Talsari, close to Digha. The incident has raised serious questions about safety standards on film and television sets in the Bengali industry.

The complaint, registered as a ‘Zero FIR’, alleges negligence and calls for a fair and transparent probe into the circumstances surrounding the actor’s death. The forum stated that it was not satisfied with the explanation provided by the production house after seeking clarification earlier this month.

Banerjee’s wife, Priyanka Sarkar, joined members of the forum in filing the complaint and demanding accountability. She was accompanied by several prominent figures from the industry, including Prosenjit Chatterjee, Rituparna Sengupta and Shantilal Mukherjee, among others.

The forum has also alleged that the production team may have engaged in negligent practices during the shoot, potentially putting lives at risk. Reports indicate that concerns have been raised about the manner in which the scene was filmed, including safety arrangements at the location.

Following the incident, members of the Bengali film fraternity held protests demanding justice. Several actors and filmmakers, including Aparna Sen, Srijit Mukherjee and Kaushik Ganguly, participated in a march carrying placards calling for accountability and improved safety measures.

According to the forum, a formal letter had been sent to the production house on April 1 seeking details about the incident. However, the response received was described as inadequate, prompting the decision to pursue legal action.

The case has also drawn attention to broader concerns about safety protocols in the film industry, particularly during outdoor shoots involving water or risky conditions. Industry bodies and workers have emphasised the need for stricter guidelines and enforcement to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Banerjee was taken to a nearby hospital following the incident but was declared dead on arrival. His death has sparked widespread grief and renewed calls for stronger safety regulations on film sets across the country.