In a dramatic development that has sent shockwaves through West Bengal’s film industry, Trinamool Congress leader Swarup Biswas was arrested by Kolkata Police on the night of June 4. Once considered one of the most influential figures in Tollywood’s studio ecosystem, Biswas now faces serious allegations including extortion, sexual harassment, and criminal intimidation.
The arrest followed a complaint filed by a 42-year-old makeup artist from Regent Park, who alleged that she had been denied work for nearly two years due to the industry’s controversial “ban culture.” Seeking employment opportunities, she reportedly approached Biswas, the former president of the Federation of Cine Technicians & Workers of Eastern India (FCTWEI). According to her complaint, he demanded large sums of money in exchange for work and later allegedly pressured her into making sexual compromises. When she refused, she claimed that Biswas and his associates threatened and attacked her.
Based on the complaint, police booked Biswas under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including charges related to sexual harassment, extortion, and criminal intimidation, along with sections of the Arms Act.
The arrest sparked celebrations outside the New Alipore police station, where artists, technicians, and local residents gathered to express relief. Many accused Biswas of creating a climate of fear and financial exploitation within the industry. Protesters shouted slogans and condemned what they described as years of unchecked abuse of power.
The case comes at a time of growing turmoil within Tollywood. Recent disputes over the control of industry organizations have already led to tensions and clashes between rival groups. Meanwhile, investigators are also examining allegations linking Swarup Biswas and his brother, former minister Aroop Biswas, to an alleged ticket black-marketing racket connected to Lionel Messi’s proposed event in Kolkata.
For many industry workers, the arrest represents a significant moment in the ongoing fight against corruption and intimidation within Tollywood.
