An upcoming Netflix film titled Ghooskhor Pandat, starring Manoj Bajpayee, has triggered a major political controversy in Uttar Pradesh. The Yogi Adityanath government has ordered the registration of an FIR against director Neeraj Pandey. The Centre has also directed Netflix to remove the film’s trailer from its platform. The controversy centres on allegations of caste-based targeting through the film’s title.

The FIR has been registered at Hazratganj police station in Lucknow on charges of spreading social discord and hurting religious and caste sentiments. Authorities cited concerns over law and order, claiming widespread anger among the Brahmin community. Several organisations reportedly warned of protests if the film was released with the same title. The government described the matter as highly sensitive.

Police stated that, prima facie, the film’s promotion appeared intended to insult a particular caste and disturb communal harmony. The complaint was filed by the Station House Officer, Vikram Singh, who said the title seemed deliberately provocative. Police added that further action would depend on evidence gathered during the investigation. The probe will assess promotional content and legal violations.

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The controversy drew political reactions, with BSP chief Mayawati supporting the FIR and calling for a ban on caste-targeting films. She said portraying the term “Pandit” as synonymous with corruption insults the entire community. Mayawati termed the issue deeply concerning and demanded immediate central intervention. She described the police action as appropriate.

Following the backlash, actor Manoj Bajpayee clarified that the film was not intended to target any community. He said the filmmakers decided to withdraw promotional material in view of public sentiment. Director Neeraj Pandey also stated that the film is a fictional cop drama. He added that the term was a colloquial name for a fictional character.

Pandey expressed regret that the title caused hurt and said the team acted responsibly by pausing promotions. He stressed that there was no intention to offend any community or individual. Meanwhile, a Mumbai-based filmmakers’ body also urged restraint in the use of the title. The incident highlights growing sensitivities around caste representation in cinema.

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