Written by: Gyanam Kalita

The Assamese film industry, now 91 years old, is facing an unprecedented controversy—one that has sparked a broader crisis of accountability and safety. Filmmaker Rosy Borah has recently alleged sexual misconduct against a senior filmmaker and film critic. While such cases have not been common in the Assamese film industry, this high-profile allegation has attracted significant media attention as it involves Utpal Datta, a National Award-winning film critic and honorary faculty member at Assam down town University.

On March 8, 2026, Borah publicly accused Utpal Datta of inappropriate physical conduct at a private gathering in January 2026 through a video shared on social media. Following her disclosure, several other women reportedly came forward with similar accounts, alleging unwanted messages and advances from the senior critic and filmmaker.

However, if past reports are any indication, this is not the first high-profile allegation in Assam’s creative sector. In April 2023, journalist and writer Rimli Borkotoky accused National Award-winning filmmaker Sanjib Sabhapandit of sexual assault, alleging that he crossed physical boundaries during a visit to her residence in Guwahati. She had also filed an FIR at Panbazar Women Police Station in connection with the incident.

In the context of the recent allegations, Angoorlata Deka, Chairperson of the Assam State Commission for Women (ASCW), confirmed that Borah has approached the Commission and that proceedings are being considered for the formal registration of a complaint. Meanwhile, Assam down town University stated that any internal action would depend on identifying a suitable replacement for Utpal Datta’s academic role.

Given the seriousness of the allegations, the university’s stance has drawn criticism on social media. Many have questioned its ethical responsibility and commitment to ensuring the safety of women in academic and creative spaces. Some have also raised concerns over whether Assam’s growing pool of filmmakers, critics, and academics lacks qualified individuals to replace Utpal Datta.

In a separate incident, actress Jahanara Begum shared a troubling experience related to a recent film shoot. In a Facebook post, she stated that the shoot was scheduled at a remote location, far from both Guwahati and her residence in Tezpur. Although she had been promised comfortable accommodation, she was instead provided a room in a small hotel where she was the only occupant. Her driver, meanwhile, was asked to stay at an Inspection Bungalow several kilometres away. Feeling unsafe and insulted, she returned to Guwahati the same night. While she did not name the film or its makers, sources indicated that the project was linked to National Award-winning filmmaker Hiren Bora’s upcoming film, scheduled to be shot in Dudhnoi in Goalpara district.

Meanwhile, Sujata Hatibaruah, Assistant Professor of Political Science at Puthimari College, shared a video on Facebook addressing the Assamese film fraternity. She pointed out that the case filed by Rimli Borkotoky against Sanjib Sabhapandit has seen little to no progress after reaching the police, highlighting a concerning lack of follow-up in such complaints. She expressed fears that Borah’s case might meet a similar fate.

Hatibaruah emphasized that such allegations must be properly verified, investigated, and adjudicated in court so that the truth can emerge. However, many cases appear to stall before reaching that stage, for reasons that remain unclear. She further stated that cinema should contribute to the betterment of society, and if the industry is influenced by individuals who misuse their power, its moral and cultural role could be severely undermined. She concluded by urging society to take collective responsibility and stand against such individuals if they are found guilty.

At the same time, social media discourse has introduced a troubling counter-narrative, with some questioning whether women speak out for attention. While such skepticism exists globally, dismissing allegations outright risks silencing genuine grievances and perpetuating unsafe environments. It is equally important, however, that all accusations are examined carefully, ensuring due process and fairness to the accused.

Globally, the #MeToo movement has reshaped how societies respond to sexual misconduct in professional spaces. Individuals found guilty face not only legal consequences but also professional sanctions, public censure, and removal from positions of influence—a standard that institutions in Assam must strive to uphold. However, it is concerning that sections of the media in Assam have not consistently covered such incidents.

Today, women in Assam’s film industry—filmmakers, actors, and technicians—are gaining recognition at both national and international levels. Yet, they continue to operate within spaces marked by power imbalances, where speaking out often involves significant personal and professional risks. The state cannot celebrate their achievements while tolerating environments that compromise safety, dignity, and respect.

Unless these issues are addressed systematically, progress for women in Assam’s film sector will remain fragile. The industry must confront a difficult question: will talent and reputation continue to be protected at the cost of ethics, or will justice finally be given its due place?

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