Key Facts
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday (June 15, 2026) announced that the state police's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) will take over the investigation into the mysterious death of actor Rahul Arunodoy Bandyopadhyay at Talsari beach in Odisha on March 29.
Addressing reporters, Mr. Adhikari stated, "A few days ago, a film actor died mysteriously at Talsari while shooting. His family members urged for an investigation into the matter and also lodged an FIR. The case will now be handed over to the CID."
Details of the Incident
The 42-year-old actor was shooting for a television series at Talsari beach when he reportedly entered the water as the tide came in and was swept away. Technicians pulled him out, but he was rushed to a hospital in Digha, East Midnapore district, where he was declared dead. Preliminary reports attribute the death to drowning.
Reactions and Demands
Following the tragedy, co-stars and fellow artists raised concerns about the lack of safety measures during the shoot. Many alleged that the production team did not have the required permission to shoot at the site. The actor's colleagues went on strike for several days, demanding a thorough and unbiased probe. Later, they decided to boycott the production company involved.
The actor's wife, Priyanka Sarkar, lodged an FIR for unnatural death, prompting the Odisha police to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to look into the matter.
Impact and Aftermath
The controversy led to the resignation of Leena Gangopadhyay, head of the production company and a close confidant of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, from her position as chairperson of the West Bengal Commission for Women.
What Readers Should Know
- The CID will now lead the investigation, taking over from the Odisha police SIT.
- The actor's family and colleagues have been demanding a fair probe into the circumstances of his death.
- Questions have been raised about safety protocols and permissions for the shoot.
FAQ
Who was the actor who died at Talsari beach?
Rahul Arunodoy Bandyopadhyay, a 42-year-old Bengali television actor, died while shooting for a series at Talsari beach in Odisha.
Why has the CID been called in?
Following demands from the family and co-stars for a thorough investigation, West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari announced that the CID will take over the case.
What were the circumstances of the death?
The actor reportedly entered the water during high tide and was swept away. He was rescued but declared dead at a hospital in Digha. Preliminary reports suggest drowning.
What action has been taken against the production company?
The head of the production company, Leena Gangopadhyay, resigned from her position as chairperson of the West Bengal Commission for Women amid the controversy.
Source: www.thehindu.com