Palak Sindhwani Faces Legal Action from Taarak Mehta

Mumbai: Palak Sindhwani, who plays the role of Sonu Bhide in the popular television series Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, has received a formal notice from the show's creators, raising yet another legal concern. According to the notification, Palak violated her contract by participating in unapproved third-party endorsements and appearances without obtaining written consent, as required by the terms of her agreement. The creators have further declared that these offenses, which continued despite multiple verbal and written warnings and breached the exclusivity contract, compromised the integrity of the character and the series, and that they were compelled to take strict official action.

In response, Palak stated that she would be leaving the show shortly, the second actor or actress to leave a show with such a lengthy run.

Actress Jennifer Mistry Bansiwal had earlier filed a formal complaint against executive producer Jatin Bajaj, producer Asit Modi, and operation head Sohail Ramani, claiming that they had made advances toward her in a flirtatious and sexual manner.

Nevertheless, Jennifer prevailed in the hearing, and Asit was ordered to pay Jennifer the remaining Rs. five lakh as well as settle her outstanding debts. But later, Jennifer stated, "I think a woman's reputation matters most," expressing her disapproval of the decision. I worked hard on the serial and earned my due amount, but it has been more than 40 days and I still haven't received it. Even though Mr. Modi was found guilty of sexual harassment, none of the three accused have received any punishment."

"I'm disappointed that Sohil and Jatin weren't mentioned in the decision. My rightful amount was ordered by the local committee. This decision makes it evident that I wasn't fabricating my case or looking for quick media attention. Although I'm happy that my harassment was acknowledged, I don't think I've yet received fair justice." She came to an end.

Before Jennifer, Shailesh Lodha, the show's lead actor, accused the producers of failing to pay him all of his dues, sparking a legal dispute between them. Shailesh prevailed in the case in 2023, and the makers were forced to pay the full sum.

The program started on the Sony SAB channel on July 28, 2008, and is presently accessible on the Sony LIV platform.