All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) condemned the lapse in security and demanded an immediate investigation into all studios conducting auditions across Mumbai, warning that such events tarnish the reputation of the Bollywood industry.
AICWA demands strict action
AICWA President Suresh Shyamalal Gupta issued a notice to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging strong action against those responsible.
From the association’s official X handle, Gupta wrote:
“A shocking case has emerged from Powai where a fake Bollywood audition was being held at R.A. Studio. Around 20 aspiring artists were allegedly kidnapped, and Mumbai Police’s prompt and brave response saved them.”
The association questioned how such a major operation could be carried out in a reputed studio without proper checks, permission, or security protocols.
Key issues raised by AICWA
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On what basis was R.A. Studio permitted to hold the audition?
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How did the organizers obtain the data of aspiring artists?
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Who were the individuals behind these auditions, and what are their backgrounds?
Gupta stated,
“If such crimes can occur so easily in Mumbai—the heart of India’s film industry—it means the safety of every aspiring artist is at risk. This is not just one incident; it’s about restoring faith in Bollywood’s integrity.”
He urged the government to implement a transparent verification and licensing system for studios and production houses holding auditions. The association also recommended mandatory background checks and registration protocols for all casting processes.
Advisory for aspiring artists
AICWA appealed to all newcomers and technicians to attend only verified auditions and to report any suspicious activity directly to the police or the association.
What happened inside R.A. Studio
The accused, 50-year-old YouTuber Rohit Arya from Pune, had invited about 100 children aged 10–15 years for a two-day web series audition. During the event, he locked 17 children and two adults inside a room and later uploaded a video claiming he was “not a terrorist.”
When police reached the scene around 1:30 PM, Quick Response Team (QRT) commandos launched a rescue mission. Within 35 minutes, all captives were freed. During the operation, Arya fired at officers using an air gun, prompting retaliatory fire. He was injured in the exchange and later died in the hospital at 5:15 PM.
Arya reportedly ran a YouTube channel and had been conducting auditions at R.A. Studio for several months.
The incident has triggered widespread concern in the film fraternity, with many calling for stricter regulation of the audition process to prevent exploitation and ensure the safety of young artists.
