AICWA urges Telangana CM Revanth Reddy to probe Rajesh Sharma's health crisis on Fauji set
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has written a formal letter to Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy demanding a high-level investigation into the circumstances that led to actor Rajesh Sharma's medical emergency during the shooting of Prabhas-starrer Fauji at Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad. The association has raised serious concerns about workplace safety, hygiene standards, and emergency medical preparedness on the film's set.
What Happened on the Fauji Set
Rajesh Sharma reportedly suffered a suspected insect bite while filming at Ramoji Film City, following which his health deteriorated severely. He subsequently travelled to Kolkata, where he was admitted to a private hospital for treatment. According to AICWA, Sharma remains under close medical observation and is reportedly still not out of danger.
Key Questions AICWA Has Raised
In its letter, AICWA posed pointed questions about the production's conduct. 'If Actor Rajesh Sharma's condition became so serious during the shoot, why was he not immediately admitted to one of Hyderabad's leading hospitals by the producer and production house? Was adequate emergency medical assistance available on the set? Were all mandatory health, hygiene and workplace safety protocols being followed?' the association wrote. The body has demanded that the investigation determine the exact cause of the medical emergency and identify any negligence on the part of the producer, production house, or any other responsible authority.
What the Association Is Demanding
AICWA has called on Chief Minister Revanth Reddy to order an immediate, impartial, and transparent probe. The association has also flagged a broader systemic concern — that workers and technicians on film sets frequently hesitate to speak openly for fear of losing employment or facing professional consequences, creating an atmosphere that, it argues, suppresses transparency and accountability. It has demanded strict legal action against all those found responsible if any lapse or negligence is established.
Wider Industry Safety Context
The incident has reignited debate over occupational safety standards in the Indian film industry. AICWA noted that 'the film industry has a legal and moral responsibility to provide a safe, hygienic and medically prepared working environment for every artist, technician and worker.' This comes amid growing scrutiny of on-set conditions across major productions, particularly those involving large outdoor schedules at studio complexes. The outcome of any investigation ordered by the Telangana government is expected to set a precedent for how production houses handle medical emergencies on set.