Directors' body suspends Bengali filmmaker Arindam Sil over sexual harassment allegations

The suspension, effective immediately, came after the body reviewed the seriousness of the allegations as well as the preliminary evidence.

According to a statement from the DAEI Secretary Sudeshna Roy, the decision to suspend Sil was taken owing to "certain allegations" and "prima facie evidence" that raised significant concerns.

The association stated that Sil will remain suspended until the allegations are fully investigated and resolved.

The controversy began several months ago when a female actor on Sil's film set accused him of inappropriate behaviour with her.

According to her allegation, Sil kissed her on the cheek while explaining a shot. The complaint was filed with the state's women's commission, leading to three hearings involving Sil.

Last Friday, Sil appeared before the Women's Commission and issued an apology. He was asked to submit a letter expressing regret.

"If the actor has been insulted by my unintended behaviour, I sincerely apologise for it."

Speaking to a local media channel, he reiterated his regret for "hurting the female actor unintentionally" but said he was never spoken to regarding the suspension.

"They neither asked me for any clarification nor did they clarify what the evidence is. I believe my letter to the Women's Commission was considered as their prima facie evidence."