Internal friction within the Cine and TV Artistes Association, widely known as CINTAA, has spilled into the open as conflicting factions clash over organizational decorum and administrative leadership. The dispute reached a critical turning point following sharp public remarks from former office bearer Upasana Singh and newly elected executive committee member Nagma. Both actors have voiced profound disappointment regarding the operational culture, alleging that seasoned professionals were subjected to disrespectful behavior during official meetings and administrative gatherings.
Disregard for Senior Actors and Voting Denials
Detailing the friction within the association, Upasana Singh highlighted multiple episodes where notable performers were made to feel distinctly unwelcome. Among those affected were Mukesh Rishi, Deepak Parashar, and Vikas Verma, who reportedly experienced difficult moments during organizational sessions. A specific case involved veteran actor Mukesh Rishi, who was delayed by roughly thirty minutes while traveling through heavy Mumbai traffic.
Upon reaching the venue, Mukesh Rishi was informed that he could no longer cast his vote due to his late arrival. This strict measure triggered deep indignation, prompting the actor to voice his frustration over the microphone at the annual general meeting. Mukesh Rishi directly questioned how fellow members could subject him to such humiliating treatment after his long-standing career. Upasana emphasized that penalizing a respected senior artist in this manner caused deep distress across the fraternity.
Deepak Parashar Dedication and the Closed-Door Episode
Upasana Singh shared another painful incident concerning actor Deepak Parashar, who previously held the critical post of treasurer within the association. During a high-profile press conference associated with Hema Malini, Deepak Parashar reportedly found himself locked outside the venue. Despite knocking repeatedly on the doors, he was allegedly barred from entering the room, an encounter that left him emotionally wounded. He later confided that being treated as an outsider within his own association was thoroughly demoralizing.
Reflecting on his devotion to the body, Upasana recounted how Deepak Parashar had voluntarily cooked meals for his fellow colleagues during committee meetings over a period of about two and a half years. He would routinely wake up at five in the morning to prepare fresh food for everyone attending the executive sessions. She pointed out that while ideological differences and administrative disputes are normal in any organization, foundational courtesy and mutual respect toward seniors should never be compromised.
Scrutiny Over Poonam Dhillon and Padmini Kolhapure Conduct
Turning her attention to the leadership cadre, Upasana Singh leveled pointed criticisms against Poonam Dhillon and Padmini Kolhapure. She claimed that both stars maintained an aloof stance, distancing themselves from general members and consistently avoiding sharing an elevator with others in the office building.
She further recounted an unsettling incident involving Vikas Verma, an association employee dedicated to member welfare. According to Upasana, Vikas was belittled and humiliated simply because he lacked fluency in English. She stressed that Vikas has consistently stepped forward to aid artists in distress and execute vital welfare initiatives. The hostile atmosphere, she added, often left him visibly distraught and weeping outside the office corridors.
Nagma Rebuts Puppet Allegations
The controversy gathered further momentum when actress Nagma pushed back against assertions allegedly labeling new executive committee members as puppets. Nagma firmly dismissed suggestions that the newly elected team operates at anyone behest, maintaining that every single member brings independent judgment and integrity to the table.
Drawing upon her extensive career working alongside leading figures such as Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Akshay Kumar, and Jackie Shroff, Nagma emphasized that she understands the film business thoroughly. She noted that describing elected members as puppets dancing to someone else tunes is offensive and unacceptable. Nagma reiterated that she joined the administrative panel not to engage in personal squabbles, but to ensure transparent functioning for struggling artists. While policy differences are natural, she stated, organizational engagements must remain fair, ethical, and free from petty personal attacks.
Mass Resignations and Counter-Clarifications
This ongoing confrontation represents an escalation of the crisis that erupted when eight executive committee members resigned en masse. That group of outgoing members included Mukesh Rishi, Deepak Parashar, and Vikas Verma, who cited opaque decision-making processes and an absence of consultation as their reasons for departing.
In response to the allegations, Poonam Dhillon and Padmini Kolhapure have categorically dismissed the claims made against them. Both have defended their tenure, offering detailed clarifications regarding the operational mechanisms, governance policies, and financial matters of the association.
