Controversy has erupted in the Telugu film industry after actor Divya Bharathi accused ‘GOAT’ director Naresh Kuppili of misbehavior during the making of the film. Her allegations, made public earlier this week, have prompted the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) to demand reforms and involvement of statutory bodies to address women’s safety.

Divya Bharathi said Kuppili repeatedly used inappropriate Used abusive language and behavior on the set. He described the situation, saying, “Calling women ‘chilaka’ or any other word is not a harmless joke; it is a reflection of deep-rooted misogyny. This was not a one-time incident; this director followed the same pattern on the set, repeatedly insulting women and betraying the art he claims to create. What disappointed me most was that the hero remained silent, allowing this culture to live another day. I would have chosen better …I choose workplaces where women are not targets.” Fun, where every voice counts, and where respect cannot be compromised.”

Following the actor’s claims, AICWA released a statement supporting Divya Bharti, saying, “Unfortunately, many such incidents occur but are often suppressed. AICWA deeply appreciates Divya Bharti’s courage in speaking out against this insult, and the entire AICWA team stands firmly with her.”

The Cine Employees Union also urged for the formation of a ‘Women Redressal Committee’ under the chairmanship of a retired woman judge. It added, “Many individuals across the industry face similar experiences, but most victims remain silent out of fear that influential groups may block their opportunities and destroy their careers. This fear prevents them from coming forward. Therefore, the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) strongly demands the formation of a dedicated ‘Women’s Redressal Committee’ to hear and address the grievances of women in the Indian film industry. The allegations made by Divya are a transparent, “highlighting the urgent need for independent and trustworthy mechanisms where women can seek justice without fear.”

AICWA called for immediate action from statutory bodies while requesting the National Commission for Women (NCW) to intervene. “The National Commission for Women (NCW) should take immediate cognizance of Divya Bharti’s case and initiate strict action against those responsible. It is imperative that such incidents are dealt with sternly so that no woman in the film industry feels unsafe or threatened while performing her professional duties,” the appeal said.

The incident took off on social media after Divya Bharathi shared a screenshot of a tweet in which the director called her a ‘chilaka’, a Telugu word meaning ‘bird’ but sometimes used derogatorily. She further alleged that the director suggested she was only suitable for supporting roles and expressed disappointment at her co-star’s silence.

As the issue continues to gain attention, Divya Bharti’s social media posts reiterate her stance. One such post read, “Calling women ‘chilaka’ or any other term is not a harmless joke, it is a reflection of deep-rooted misogyny. And this was not a one-time incident; this director followed the same pattern on the sets, repeatedly insulting women and honestly, betraying the art he claims to be…”

As this issue is gaining attention in the industry, the National Commission for Women has not yet issued any response.