(Web Desk) A camera assistant was electrocuted during the shooting of popular Indian TV show Anupama, but the production house is trying to cover up the incident.
32-year-old Vineet Kumar Mandal hailed from Bihar. He was watching the operation of technical equipment during the shoot of the show on November 14 when he accidentally grabbed a bare wire that was carrying current. He was rushed to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical attention.
Anupama is being shot under Rajan Shahi’s director’s kit productions. The organization has not yet issued any official statement regarding the death of Vineet Kumar Mandal. All India Cine Workers Association President Suresh Gupta has strongly condemned the silence of the production house over the death of the camera assistant.
Suresh Gupta has demanded the government to register an FIR against the parent company of the show called Anupama and the officials of Film City and to pay a total compensation of Rs 1 crore to the heirs of Vineet Kumar Mandal. He alleged that the safety of the workers was not taken care of during the shooting and they were treated like vermin.
How can the film industry ensure accountability and support for families impacted by on-set accidents?
Title: Tragic Incident on Anupama Set: An Interview with Industry Expert Suresh Gupta
Q1: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Gupta. Can you provide a brief overview of the recent tragic incident involving the camera assistant, Vineet Kumar Mandal?
Suresh Gupta: Thank you for having me. On November 14, during the filming of the popular Indian TV show Anupama, a young camera assistant, Vineet Kumar Mandal, tragically lost his life after being electrocuted while handling technical equipment. He was only 32 years old and hailed from Bihar. The incident occurred when he accidentally came into contact with a live wire. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries.
Q2: This incident raises significant safety concerns. Can you elaborate on the industry’s current safety protocols regarding equipment handling on set?
Suresh Gupta: It’s essential for production companies to prioritize the safety of their crew members. Unfortunately, incidents like these highlight a severe lack of safety measures. Proper training on equipment handling, comprehensive safety checks, and working with certified technicians are critical. The absence of these protocols has resulted in preventable tragedies. The industry must enforce strict regulations and ensure their implementation to protect workers.
Q3: The production house has remained silent regarding this incident. What implications does this have for the industry, and why is it crucial for them to address it?
Suresh Gupta: Silence from the production house, in this case, is not just alarming; it’s unethical. It undermines the gravity of the situation and disregards the life lost. Public transparency is vital, as it helps rebuild trust with the workforce and the audience. By not addressing the issue, they risk damaging their reputation and could face legal actions. An official statement could pave the way for better safety regulations and honour Vineet’s memory in a more meaningful way.
Q4: You have called for the government to take action against the company and provide compensation to Mandal’s family. What are the necessary steps you believe should be taken?
Suresh Gupta: Firstly, I urge the government to register an FIR against the production house responsible for Anupama and any officials from Film City involved. Accountability is critical. Secondly, a compensation of Rs 1 crore should be paid to Vineet’s family to support them during this tragic time. Beyond immediate responses, we need a broader conversation about worker safety norms in the film industry to ensure that such negligence is addressed.
Q5: For aspiring professionals in the film industry, what practical advice would you offer to ensure their safety on set?
Suresh Gupta: My advice would be to always prioritize personal safety. Workers should ensure they are informed about the equipment being used and ask questions if unsure. They should also advocate for their rights regarding safety protocols and refuse to work in hazardous conditions. It’s crucial to support organizations, like the All India Cine Workers Association, that fight for better conditions. Awareness and communication are key to creating a safer work environment.
Q6: In your view, how can the film industry improve its safety measures to prevent incidents like this in the future?
Suresh Gupta: The industry must adopt a culture of safety that begins with education and training. Regular workshops on safety practices, mandatory safety equipment, and regular inspections of electrical systems are critical steps. Additionally, establishing a clear reporting system for safety hazards and encouraging a proactive rather than reactive approach can help significantly. Involving crew members in discussions about safety can foster a sense of community and responsibility, ultimately preventing tragedies like that of Vineet Kumar Mandal.
Q7: Thank you, Mr. Gupta, for your insights. As we close, what message do you want to leave our readers regarding workplace safety in the entertainment industry?
Suresh Gupta: Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts. I want to remind everyone in the entertainment industry that safety cannot be compromised for the sake of creativity or deadlines. Every worker deserves to return home safely after a day on set. Let’s honor the memory of those who have suffered by making a collective effort towards a safer working environment.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
In light of the tragic passing of Vineet Kumar Mandal, it is imperative for both industry leaders and aspiring professionals to recognize the urgent need for enhanced safety measures on film sets. Moving forward, a culture that prioritizes worker safety must be established to prevent future tragedies.