AICWA seeks FIR over Satendra Soni’s allegations

Mumbai: The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has urged the Madhya Pradesh government to register an FIR against the makers of Ped Palki after actor Satendra Soni alleged that he and several other artistes were not paid their agreed remuneration and were threatened when they demanded their dues.

The association described the allegations as a matter of serious concern and called for a fair investigation, while stressing the need to protect the rights and dignity of film industry workers.

AICWA demands investigation

In a statement shared on X, AICWA said Satendra Soni’s emotional video had highlighted concerns about the treatment of artistes and workers in the Indian film industry.

Actor Satendra Soni, who appeared in Laapataa Ladies, has publicly alleged that he was called to Maihar, Madhya Pradesh, for a film shoot. According to him, despite working for 8 days, he was not paid his agreed remuneration. He stated that he received only an advance of ₹50,000… pic.twitter.com/TwwmrtD2Xf

— All Indian Cine Workers Association (@aicwaofficial) June 28, 2026

The organisation said allegations of delayed or denied payments and intimidation deserve serious attention and urged the Madhya Pradesh government to take immediate cognisance of the matter.

AICWA also called for an impartial investigation into the claims and said every artist and worker is entitled to timely payment and a safe working environment.

The association’s statement was issued in support of Soni after he publicly shared his account of the alleged incident.

Satendra Soni’s allegations

In a video posted on social media, Satendra Soni claimed he travelled to Maihar to shoot for Ped Palki, directed by Pushpendra Singh.

According to the actor, he was paid ₹50,000 as a signing amount, while the remaining payment was promised during the course of filming.

Soni alleged that after eight days of shooting, he and other artistes asked for their pending payments but were instead instructed to leave the hotel.

He further claimed they were threatened when they demanded their agreed remuneration.

These allegations have not been independently verified, and the filmmakers have not publicly responded to the claims.

Actor confirms safe return

In a subsequent video, Soni informed his followers that he and the others had safely returned to Mumbai.

He thanked the Maihar Police, actor Ashutosh Rana and everyone else who assisted them during what he described as a difficult situation.

The actor expressed gratitude for the support he received and said the group had safely completed their journey back home.

Call for workers’ rights

AICWA said the allegations highlight broader concerns about the working conditions faced by many artists and technicians in the entertainment industry.

The association stated that workers are sometimes allegedly promised payments that are later delayed or withheld, and claimed such complaints should be thoroughly investigated whenever they arise.

It reiterated that industry professionals deserve respect, financial security and protection from intimidation while carrying out their work.

About Satendra Soni

Satendra Soni has appeared in several films and streaming projects, including Laapataa Ladies, Mirzapur, Doctor G, Bawaal, Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders, and Hello Bachhon.

He received appreciation for his performance in Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies, which was backed by Aamir Khan and selected as India’s official entry for the Academy Awards.

As of now, neither the makers of Ped Palki nor director Pushpendra Singh have issued a public response to the allegations levelled by the actor.

Authorities are expected to examine the matter if a formal complaint is pursued.