Film workers’ body seeks FIR against Sanjay Leela Bhansali, ₹1 crore compensation after worker’s death on Love & War set

AICWA Demands FIR Against Sanjay Leela Bhansali Over Love & War Worker Fatality

Tragic Incident Sparks Safety Inquiry

Film workers body seeks FIR against – Following the untimely death of Chandradhari Singh Yadav, a crew member on the set of *Love & War* in Mumbai, the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has formally sought a First Information Report (FIR) against filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The incident, which occurred on 17 June 2026, has raised urgent concerns about safety protocols in the film industry. AICWA, representing the interests of thousands of workers, is also advocating for ₹1 crore compensation to Yadav’s family, emphasizing the need for accountability and improved working conditions.

Historical Pattern of Workplace Accidents

“This is not the first time such fatalities have been reported on Bhansali’s sets,” said AICWA president Suresh Shyamlal Gupta in a letter addressed to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. “During *Devdas*, worker Dindayal Yadav died, and another sustained critical injuries. Similarly, Subhash Morkar was reportedly killed during the same production, while Mukesh Dakiya, aged 34, lost his life while filming *Padmaavat*.”

Gupta highlighted that these incidents underscore a recurring pattern of negligence in the industry, even as high-profile projects like *Love & War* attract global attention. The film workers body seeks FIR against Bhansali and his team for failing to ensure adequate safety measures, which the association claims led to the preventable tragedy. The death of Yadav, who was reportedly involved in a mishap during a high-intensity scene, has intensified calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations.

Call for Legal Action and Compensation

The AICWA has urged the Maharashtra government to take legal action against Bhansali, the production house, and the responsible personnel for the accident. The focus keyword “film workers body seeks FIR against” reappears in their demands, emphasizing the association’s push for accountability. They are also seeking ₹1 crore compensation to support Yadav’s family, which includes his wife and two young daughters. This financial aid aims to cover medical expenses, loss of income, and long-term care for the children, as the incident has left the family in dire straits.

Additionally, Gupta called for an independent inquiry into the incident, stressing that such measures are crucial to address systemic issues in film production. The association’s letter to the Chief Minister outlines the need for a comprehensive safety audit of the *Love & War* set and other filming locations, with the goal of preventing future tragedies. The film workers body seeks FIR against Bhansali not only as a response to this specific incident but also as a broader step to ensure safety in the industry.

Impact on Worker Families and Industry Standards

Yadav’s death has sent shockwaves through the Mumbai film community, with many workers expressing concern over the lack of protective measures on set. The incident has reignited debates about the working conditions of crew members, who often face long hours and hazardous environments without proper safeguards. Gupta reiterated that the film workers body seeks FIR against Bhansali as part of a larger movement to hold producers accountable for their obligations under labor laws.

The AICWA is also pushing for a review of existing safety guidelines, arguing that they are insufficient to prevent such incidents. Gupta emphasized that even though the project features Bollywood icons like Ranbir Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, and Alia Bhatt, the safety of ordinary workers is frequently overlooked. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those in the background of the film industry, where safety lapses can have devastating consequences.

Industry Reactions and Future Steps

In response to the AICWA’s demands, some industry stakeholders have acknowledged the need for stricter safety protocols. However, others have defended the production team, citing the challenges of filming complex scenes under tight schedules. The film workers body seeks FIR against Bhansali to ensure transparency and prompt action, with the hope of setting a precedent for future projects.

Gupta called for a temporary suspension of shooting activities at the affected site until safety standards are verified. The association also plans to collaborate with labor organizations to advocate for better wages and working conditions. By emphasizing the film workers body seeks FIR against Bhansali, AICWA aims to highlight the importance of safety in preserving the livelihoods of those who contribute to the success of Bollywood films.