Brother Alleges Harassment Behind Actress Sanchita Ugale's Suicide
MUMBAI: Actor Sanchita Ugale's brother, Akash Satish Ugale, has alleged that his sister was being harassed by people in Bollywood and claimed that the pressure she faced may have contributed to her death by suicide.
Speaking to news agency ANI, Akash drew parallels between Sanchita's death and that of late Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput, who was found dead on June 14, 2020.
“Six years ago, on June 14, Sushant Singh Rajput died by suicide. My sister also died on the same date. I spoke to some of her friends and found out that certain casting people were harassing her. That is why she was upset,” Akash said.
He also pointed to an Instagram reel uploaded from an account carrying Sanchita's profile picture, which featured a video of Sushant Singh Rajput. “The Instagram ID I showed you uploaded this reel yesterday. It has a video of Sushant Singh Rajput, and my sister's profile picture has been used. It is for the police to investigate,” he said.
Akash alleged that both Sushant and Sanchita faced intense pressure from the entertainment industry.
Calling for a detailed probe, he said the industry can be intimidating and alleged that powerful people often influence careers. Sanchita, 22, known for her roles in television shows including Kumkum Bhagya and Wagle Ki Duniya, was found dead at her residence in Nalasopara East on June 14.
According to police, she was found hanging from a ceiling fan in her bedroom using a saree. The room was locked from the inside. Family members rushed her to a municipal hospital, where doctors declared her dead.
Based on a complaint filed by her father, Machhindra Ugale, Achole Police have registered an Accidental Death Report (ADR) under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Officials said the investigation is underway and the exact reason behind the alleged suicide is yet to be determined.
Police have not confirmed Akash Ugale's allegations regarding harassment by casting professionals, and the matter remains under investigation.
Background on Sanchita Ugale
Sanchita Ugale was a promising young actress who appeared in popular television serials. Her sudden death has shocked the entertainment industry and her fans.
Investigation Underway
The police are conducting a thorough investigation. They are examining digital evidence, including the Instagram reel mentioned by Akash, and interviewing acquaintances to ascertain the circumstances leading to her death.
Industry Reactions
The incident has sparked discussions about the pressures faced by actors in the entertainment industry, with many calling for better mental health support and stricter measures against harassment.
