Last Updated:November 23, 2025, 11:46 IST

Divyabharathi accused GOAT director Naresh Kuppili of misconduct, sparking AICWA to demand reforms and NCW intervention for women’s safety in the Telugu film industry.

AICWA Steps In After Divyabharathi Accuses Naresh Kuppili of Misconduct.

A fresh controversy has hit the Telugu film industry after actor Divyabharathi went public with allegations of misconduct against GOAT director Naresh Kuppili. Her remarks, which quickly gained traction online, have now prompted the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) to demand stronger institutional mechanisms for women working in the film industry.

Divyabharathi triggered the discussion earlier this week when she accused Naresh Kuppili of misbehaving with her during the shoot and using a derogatory Telugu term to address her. She also expressed disappointment that her co-star, Sudigali Sudheer, did not step in during the incident. She shared a screenshot of a tweet in which the director referred to her as “chilaka”, a word that translates to “bird” but is often weaponised as a misogynistic label, and suggested she was suited only for supporting roles.

The backlash has now widened, with AICWA issuing a strong statement supporting Divyabharathi and acknowledging the broader culture of silence in the industry. In its post, the organisation said, “Unfortunately, many such incidents occur but are often suppressed. AICWA deeply appreciates Divya Bharathi’s courage in raising her voice against this humiliation, and the entire AICWA team stands firmly with her in every step she takes.”

Calling for structural reform, the association added, “Many individuals across the industry suffer 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 ‘Women Redressal Committee,’ chaired by a retired female judge, dedicated to hearing and addressing complaints from women across the Indian film industry. The allegations raised by Divya once again highlight the urgent need for a transparent, independent, and trustworthy mechanism where women can seek justice without fear. Women are the dignity of every household, and no one should be allowed to disrespect them.”

The organisation further appealed for statutory intervention, urging the “National Commission for Women (NCW) to take immediate cognizance of Divya Bharathi’s case and initiate strict action against those responsible. It is essential that such incidents are dealt with firmly so that no woman in the film industry feels unsafe or threatened while performing her professional duties.”

Divyabharathi had earlier elaborated on her concerns in a detailed post, stating, “Calling women ‘Chilaka’ or any other term isn’t a harmless joke, it’s a reflection of deep-rooted misogyny. And this wasn’t a one-off incident; this director followed the same pattern on set too, repeatedly disrespecting women and honestly, betraying the very art he claims to create. What disappointed me most was seeing the hero stay silent, allowing this culture to survive one more day. I choose better… I choose workspaces where women aren’t targets for mockery, where every voice matters, and where respect is non-negotiable. This is not just a choice; it’s my standard as an artist and as a woman!”

As the issue continues to draw attention within the industry, the National Commission for Women has not yet issued a response.