Should There Be An Investigation Against Homebound Cinematographer?

Synopsis
In a bold move, filmmaker Hansal Mehta calls for an investigation into serious allegations against Homebound cinematographer Pratik Shah, emphasizing the need to break the silence surrounding abuse in the film industry. He highlights the importance of accountability and a safe environment for all creative professionals.
Key Takeaways
- Hansal Mehta calls for an investigation into allegations against Pratik Shah.
- Emphasis on breaking the silence surrounding abuse in the industry.
- Accountability is crucial in creative workplaces.
- Dharma Productions maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment.
- All forms of abuse must be acknowledged, not just sexual misconduct.
Mumbai, May 31 (NationPress) As 'Homebound' cinematographer Pratik Shah confronts severe allegations of sexual misconduct, filmmaker Hansal Mehta has urged for a thorough investigation into the situation.
The director of 'Aligarh' took to his X timeline, expressing the necessity to shatter the silence surrounding such predators.
Hansal stated, "Abuse thrives in silence. It festers in fear. Predatory behaviour by men in positions of power must be investigated thoroughly, and if found true, must be called out — unequivocally, and without delay. For too long, predators have weaponised influence, privilege, and fear to silence survivors. That silence must be broken."
However, Mehta clarified that the misuse of power is not exclusive to one gender.
"Women in positions of authority, too, have inflicted harm. Abuse takes many forms. It is not always sexual. Mental, emotional, and psychological abuse can be just as scarring. Just as violating," he expressed.
Demanding a structured system to report such unfortunate incidents, Hansal added, "Workspaces — particularly creative ones — often disguise toxicity under the guise of ‘passion’ or ‘genius.’ This must cease. No art, no film, no script is worth the cost of someone’s safety or sanity. Victims need a voice. They need redress. They need a system that listens — and acts. Accountability is not cancel culture. It’s culture correction."
His note concluded with, "We owe it to ourselves, and to those who come after us, to make our spaces safer. Cleaner. Kinder. Call out the predators. Call out the habitual abuser. Hold them accountable. Let no power be above decency."
Meanwhile, breaking their silence on this issue, Dharma Productions stated that the banner upholds a zero-tolerance policy regarding inappropriate behavior and sexual harassment.
They further clarified, “Mr. Pratik Shah was a freelancer on the project Homebound and was working on it for a limited period. His engagement with us has been completed. During this limited period, our internal committee for POSH didn’t receive any complaints against him from any cast or crew on our film Homebound.”