Mumbai, Nov 13 (NationPress) Bollywood icon Dharmendra has reportedly been on a ventilator for several days. Following the emergence of news regarding his health, paparazzi have camped outside both his residence and the hospital where he was treated. He was discharged and returned home for further recovery on November 12.

Earlier this week, on November 11, several media outlets even announced his death, providing extensive coverage on the subject. In response, Ashoke Pandit, the President of the Indian Film & Television Directors' Association (IFTDA), has filed a police complaint against the unverified paparazzi for violating privacy and ethical standards in Dharmendra's case.

The complaint, directed to Mr. Sunil Jadhav, Senior Inspector of Police, states, “Dear Sir, I, Ashoke Pandit, Hon. President of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), wish to lodge a formal complaint against certain unverified and unscrupulous paparazzi and online media handlers who have crossed all limits of decency and ethics in the recent coverage related to the illness of Padma Bhushan, Shri Dharmendra Ji, one of the most revered icons of Indian cinema.”

The complaint further details, “It has come to our attention that certain paparazzi and digital media accounts—particularly one handle operating—have breached privacy by entering the premises of Shri Dharmendra Ji’s residence and recorded footage and images of his family members without consent. These visuals have been circulated publicly for sensationalism and profit, without regard for legality, decency, or the emotional distress caused to the family.”

Moreover, it stated, “This act is inhumane, unethical, and a gross violation of the right to privacy guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. It is not just a moral failure but a criminal offense involving unauthorized trespass, invasion of privacy, and defamation under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act.”

The complaint emphasizes, “As the President of IFTDA, representing the collective voice of the film and television community, I strongly urge your department to initiate strict action against those responsible for this disgraceful conduct. It is essential to set a strong precedent so that such violations do not recur in the future.” It also mentions, “Our film personalities are not commodities—they are human beings deserving of basic dignity and respect, especially during personal crises. The ongoing harassment and intrusion by such entities not only harms individuals but also tarnishes the reputation of Indian media and journalism as a whole.”

Ashoke Pandit further urged the police to investigate the matter. “We request you to urgently look into the matter, identify the perpetrators, and take appropriate legal action to protect the privacy and safety of Shri Dharmendra Ji and his family, thereby safeguarding the rights of all artists in the Indian film community. Thank you, Yours Sincerely, For Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association (Ashoke Pandit) Hon. President.”

The IFTDA shared the complaint on its social media account, stating, “IFTDA strongly condemns the disgraceful and unethical conduct of certain paparazzi in their intrusive reporting of Shri Dharmendra Ji’s health. Their reckless behavior is unacceptable and inhumane. A formal police complaint has been filed, and we demand strict action to ensure such indecency is never repeated.”

On November 12, Dharmendra's daughter and actress Esha Deol released a statement addressing the paparazzi, clarifying her father's health condition and dispelling death rumors. She stated on social media, “The media seems to be in overdrive and spreading false news. My father is stable & recovering. We request everyone to give our family privacy. Thank you for the prayers for papa's speedy recovery. Esha Deol. (sic)”

On the morning of November 13, Dharmendra's elder son, Sunny Deol, was seen speaking to the paparazzi outside his house, requesting them to report responsibly on his father's health updates. With folded hands, Sunny urged the paparazzi to be sensitive and avoid creating chaos during this difficult time for the Deol family.

–IANS rd/