03 June,2026 10:36 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Shilpa Shinde (Pictures via Instagram)
Actor Shilpa Shinde has found herself at the center of a fresh controversy after a men's rights organisation reportedly demanded legal action against her following her recent admission that the sexual harassment complaint she filed against Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain producer Sanjay Kohli years ago was false.
The development comes after Shilpa, during a podcast appearance with Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa, spoke about her long-running dispute with the show's makers and revealed that the allegation was not true. Reflecting on the difficult period, she said, "I filed a sexual harassment case against my producer because I had no other option." She further admitted, "It was false. I am telling the truth today. I am not afraid of anyone."
Following her statement, the Save Indian Family Foundation (SIFF), a men's rights NGO, strongly criticised the actress and called for her arrest. The organisation argued that a public admission of filing a false complaint should not be ignored and urged authorities to initiate legal proceedings.
SIFF founder Harish Sadani reportedly questioned why no action had been taken despite Shilpa's confession. The organisation maintained that knowingly filing a false complaint damages the credibility of genuine victims and can have serious consequences for those accused. According to the group, accountability is necessary to ensure that legal provisions designed to protect victims are not misused.
Shilpa's revelation relates to her highly publicised exit from Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain in 2016. At the time, she accused producer Sanjay Kohli of sexual harassment, non-payment of dues and creating a hostile work environment. The dispute led to a lengthy legal and professional battle before eventually being resolved through a settlement.
During the podcast, the actress explained the circumstances that led her to file the complaint. "My situation had become so bad that I just wanted a way out," she said. Shilpa also claimed that she felt cornered during the dispute and believed all avenues available to her had been exhausted.
She further stated, "Lying is not easy. A lie is a lie, whether it is small or big," adding that she had always wanted to acknowledge the truth publicly if given the opportunity.
The actress's remarks have sparked widespread debate online, with reactions divided between those praising her honesty and others calling for legal accountability over the admitted false allegation. The controversy has once again brought discussions around false complaints, due process and the impact such cases can have on all parties involved into the spotlight.
Shilpa was later replaced by Shubhangi Atre in the show.
