Kolkata, 04 June (H.S.) : A feature film based on the RG Kar Medical College incident of August 9, 2024, is set to be made in Tollywood, directed by BJP leader Shankudeb Panda. The announcement has triggered significant attention in the film and political circles, given the sensitivity and impact of the case.

The incident, which involved the alleged assault and death of a young trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, had sparked widespread protests across West Bengal and beyond, drawing national and international attention. The case also became a major flashpoint in the state’s political discourse.

Speaking about the project, Panda said the film will present previously undisclosed information related to the incident, claiming that several facts have not yet come to light. He described the project as more than just a film, calling it “a centre of a movement.”

Panda will also direct the film, although the cast has not yet been announced. He indicated that several actors from Kolkata as well as outside the city will be part of the project.

The filmmaker also commented on the broader functioning of the Bengali film industry, alleging that access to work in Tollywood had earlier been influenced by political connections. He claimed that such practices would no longer continue and emphasised that all artists should have equal opportunity in the industry.

He further stated that concerns about political influence in the film industry would be clarified once the new information and culture ministry takes charge, suggesting that changes are expected in the administrative framework governing the sector.

Addressing criticism that the film may have political motivations, Panda said cinema is a platform for expression and that he is using it to present his perspective on the incident. He added that he had long intended to make a film on the RG Kar case but was previously unable to do so due to other commitments.

Producer Rana Sarkar, associated with the project, said the idea was brought to him after the elections. He also noted that the film’s production became possible under the current political environment, while adding that such a film should ideally have been made earlier and that more such socially relevant films are needed.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh