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After actor Palak Sindhwani, known for playing Sonu Bhide in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, accused the show’s makers of mental harassment and non-payment of dues, producer Asit Kumarr Modi has addressed her claims. In a recent interview, Asit dismissed Palak’s accusations, stating that ‘every artist gets paid on time’ and is given adequate leave.
Speaking to Times of India, Asit said it was unfair for Palak to raise concerns after quitting the show. “If people had shared their concerns before leaving, I would have understood,” he said. Reiterating his stance on timely payments, he said, “Every artist who has worked with us has been paid on time. Some actors have been with us for 16 years, and they’ve never faced any problems,” he shared.
Asit also revealed that he is handling Palak’s accusations legally. He explained that the show maintains strict rules to ensure discipline on set, which includes restrictions on cast members taking up other projects due to the demanding schedule of shooting 26 episodes a month. He said, “We have to maintain discipline on the sets. If you are already working with an organisation, will you be allowed to do other work also, no right? Similarly, we also have certain rules as we have 26 episodes to shoot every month.”
He added, “But after working on a show for 5-6 years and then making such allegations, it’s hurtful. If the environment on our sets was truly hostile, no one would be able to work there for more than a year.” He cited examples of numerous actors, technicians, and crew members who have been associated with the show for years without complaints.
Earlier, Palak Sindhwani alleged mistreatment and threats from the show’s makers. She claimed she was treated unfairly after expressing her wish to leave the show. According to Palak, the makers accused her of breaching her contract and even threatened her to delete her Instagram account. She further alleged that despite informing them about her ill health, she was forced to shoot for 12 hours. Palak also released a statement accusing the production team of withholding Rs 21 lakh in dues. She claimed the working environment on set was toxic, citing instances of verbal mistreatment and a lack of consideration for her well-being.
Palak’s isn’t the first actor to allege mental harassment against the show’s makers. Previously, actor Jennifer Mistry had filed a police complaint against Asit, accusing him of harassment. Shailesh Lodha, who portrayed the iconic character of Mr Mehta for several years, took legal action against Modi, alleging non-payment of his dues.
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