The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has sought a high-level investigation into the death of actor Sanchita Ugale and written to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, saying the case must be examined thoroughly and transparently. In its official statement, AICWA said Ugale, 26, allegedly died by suicide at her residence in Achole, Nalasopara East, in Vasai taluka of Palghar district, and that the circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.
Calling her death a major loss for the film and television industry, the association said Ugale had been building a strong identity for herself through her work in projects including Kumkum Bhagya, Chhaava (2025), Dilwale Dulha Le Jayegi (TV series), Wagle’s World and Silence: The Night Owl Bar Shootout (2024), among other productions. AICWA said in its statement, “At just 26, Sanchita Ugale had gone too far, too soon. Her untimely departure has left her family shattered and the entire Indian film industry mourning the loss of a young talent whose memories will live on forever.”
AICWA president Suresh Shyamlal Gupta urged the Chief Minister to order a high-level enquiry into Ugale’s death and ensure justice for her family. The association said every possible angle must be investigated before any conclusion is reached, adding that in recent years the entertainment industry has seen several deaths and alleged suicide cases in which questions raised by families, colleagues and the public remained unanswered.
“The safety, well-being and support systems available to artists and workers must be reviewed urgently,” AICWA said.
The statement also noted that just a few hours before news of her alleged suicide emerged, Ugale had shared a video on her Instagram Stories featuring the song Dafli Wale Dafli Baja Free Mp3 Download. AICWA said this and all other available evidence and circumstances should be examined with complete transparency as part of the investigation.
Describing Ugale as a promising young talent, the association said she had earned the love and respect of audiences and colleagues through her dedication, hard work and passion for acting. It also said the loss to her family was beyond words and that the entire film fraternity stood with them during this difficult time.
AICWA further called on the Maharashtra government and the concerned authorities to set up a dedicated committee to examine the growing number of deaths and mental health-related crises being reported in the entertainment industry. It said the safety, well-being and support systems available to artistes and workers needed urgent review. Reiterating its demand for a fair, impartial and thorough investigation, the association said it stood firmly with Ugale’s family in their pursuit of justice and extended its condolences to her loved ones.
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