Tollywood is moving towards stricter safety measures with plans to introduce mandatory insurance for all Bengali film productions, alongside a formal code of conduct for shooting units.
The proposed changes come in the wake of actor Rahul Banerjee’s death during a serial shoot in Talsari on March 29.
The framework for the Standard Operating Procedure is being developed through discussions between the Eastern India Motion Picture Association and the West Bengal Motion Picture Artists’ Forum.
Industry representatives indicated that most aspects of the proposal have already been agreed upon, including the requirement for comprehensive insurance coverage.
EIMPA president Piyaa Sengupta said there was strong consensus on key issues, while actor Prosenjit Chatterjee emphasised the need to address long-standing gaps in safety practices.
He noted that adequate protection is essential not only for performers but also for technicians, equipment and sets.
Producers have suggested that insurance should cover both cast and crew, as well as potential risks such as fire or adverse weather conditions. There are also proposals to introduce written declarations for high-risk scenes, requiring both performers and filmmakers to acknowledge potential hazards before filming.
At the same time, concerns have emerged over the financial impact of these measures. With the Bengali film industry already facing economic pressures, some producers believe the added costs may be difficult to manage.
The discussions also touched on professional accountability, including adherence to schedules, timely dubbing and participation in promotional activities.
Further meetings are expected as stakeholders work towards finalising the guidelines.
