The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has formally requested the registration of an FIR against filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and his production house following the death of 42-year-old carpenter Chandradhari Singh Yadav. The incident occurred on the set of the upcoming film Love & War at Royal Pump Studio near Film City, Mumbai.
According to independent reports from industry bodies, Yadav suffered a fatal electric shock on June 17, 2026. The AICWA has rejected an initial compensation offer of 40 lakh rupees, citing the incident as a failure of workplace safety and accountability. AICWA President Suresh Shyamlal Gupta has pushed for legal action under charges of murder, culpable homicide, and negligence, stating that the production house is responsible for the unsafe working conditions that led to the worker’s death.
Demands for Accountability and Safety Audits
In a formal letter addressed to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the AICWA has outlined a series of demands beyond just financial restitution. The association is seeking 1 crore rupees in compensation for Yadav’s family, alongside guaranteed employment or financial support for his widow and two minor daughters. The demands filed by the association emphasize the need for systemic change within the Mumbai film industry, which has faced mounting pressure regarding worker safety and labor rights.
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has joined the call for enhanced safety measures, advocating for a mandatory audit of electrical infrastructure at all active film sets. These calls for oversight come as the industry grapples with the long-standing issue of demanding production schedules and high-pressure work environments on large-scale cinematic projects. The formal request for an FIR further underscores the increasing tension between major production houses and cine worker organizations over the enforcement of labor protection policies.