05 June,2026 03:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Ashoke Pandit and Shilpa Shinde (Pictures via Instagram)
Actress Shilpa Shinde's recent admission that she had filed a false sexual harassment complaint against Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain producer Sanjay Kohli has sparked widespread reactions across the television industry. Among those who strongly condemned her statement is filmmaker and FWICE chief advisor Ashoke Pandit, who called the revelation both disturbing and damaging.
The controversy resurfaced after Shilpa, during a recent podcast appearance, confessed that the sexual harassment allegations she made against Kohli nearly a decade ago were untrue. She claimed she felt trapped in a contractual dispute and believed she had "no other option" at the time. Shilpa also acknowledged that the producer ended up being defamed because of the accusations and publicly admitted that the complaint was false.
Reacting to the confession, Ashoke Pandit did not hold back. Expressing concern over the impact of such allegations, he said, "It is not only shameful but deeply troubling." He argued that false accusations of this nature can have long-lasting consequences and can severely damage a person's reputation, career and personal life. Pandit further stressed that such incidents make it harder for genuine victims of harassment to come forward and be believed.
According to Pandit, the issue extends beyond one individual case. He highlighted how misuse of serious allegations can weaken public trust in genuine complaints and create additional hurdles for survivors seeking justice. The filmmaker urged people to understand the gravity of such accusations and the responsibility that comes with making them.
The revelation has also triggered strong reactions on social media and within the entertainment fraternity. Actress Hina Khan was among those who criticized Shilpa's admission, describing it as "absolutely shameful" and expressing sympathy for the producer, whom she called the "real victim" in the controversy.
Shilpa's original dispute with the makers of Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain dates back to 2016 when she exited the popular sitcom amid allegations of harassment, non-payment of dues and contractual disagreements. The matter eventually reached a settlement, and years later, Shilpa even returned to work with the show's team, revealing that she now shares a cordial relationship with them.
Her confession has reignited debate about accountability, workplace disputes and the serious implications of false allegations, with many industry members calling for greater responsibility when dealing with such sensitive matters.
