04 June,2026 10:29 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Shilpa Shinde (Picture via Instagram)
Television actress Shilpa Shinde has finally addressed why she waited nearly nine years to admit that the sexual harassment allegation she had levelled against Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain producer Sanjay Kohli was false. Her recent revelation has sparked widespread discussion across the entertainment industry.
Speaking about the delay, Shilpa explained that she had wanted to clarify the truth much earlier but was unable to do so because of the terms agreed upon during the settlement of the dispute.
"I wanted to say it much earlier, but we had decided that after the settlement, neither side would talk about it in the media," Shilpa said, explaining the reason behind her prolonged silence.
The controversy dates back to 2016 when Shilpa abruptly exited the hit sitcom Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain following a bitter fallout with the show's producers. At the time, she accused the makers of harassment, non-payment of dues and professional misconduct. She had also filed a sexual harassment complaint against producer Sanjay Kohli, a move that made headlines and divided opinion within the television industry.
During her recent appearance on Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa's podcast, Shilpa stunned many by admitting that the sexual harassment case was not genuine.
"Woh jhooth tha," she said candidly, acknowledging that the allegation was false.
Explaining why she took such a step, the actress claimed that she felt trapped amid the legal and professional battle. According to her, the complaint was filed during a period when she believed she had very limited options available.
"Mere paas koi raasta nahi tha," Shilpa stated, suggesting that the case emerged from the intense conflict surrounding her exit from the show rather than an actual incident of harassment.
The actress further revealed that the matter was eventually resolved through a settlement between both parties. Over the years, tensions eased and the dispute that once dominated television headlines gradually came to an end.
Shilpa's admission has triggered strong reactions from industry members and social media users alike. Many have expressed concern over the implications of false allegations, arguing that such cases can seriously affect reputations and make it harder for genuine victims to be believed when they come forward with complaints.
Despite the backlash, Shilpa maintained that she is now speaking openly because enough time has passed since the settlement. Her confession has reignited conversations about workplace disputes, accountability and the long-term impact of serious accusations in the entertainment industry.
