Manoj Bajpayee Reacts After FIR Filed On Neeraj Pandey, ‘Ghooskhor Pandat’ Team

In a significant development for the upcoming Netflix film Ghooskhor Pandat, lead actor Manoj Bajpayee broke his silence on February 6, 2026, following a wave of legal and social backlash.

Addressing the controversy surrounding the film’s title, Bajpayee clarified that the project is not intended to disparage any community but is a character-driven story about personal failure and redemption.

Manoj Bajpayee’s Statement: “A Journey of Self-Realisation”

Following an FIR filed against the team in Lucknow, Bajpayee took to social media to support director Neeraj Pandey and address the concerns of the Brahmin community.

• Respect for Sentiments:“I respect the emotions and concerns people have shared, and I take them seriously,” Bajpayee stated. He acknowledged that when a project causes hurt, it is necessary to “pause and listen.”
• The Character Focus: He emphasized that his portrayal of Ajay Dikshit (nicknamed ‘Pandat’) is about a “flawed individual” and should not be viewed as a statement on a specific caste or community.
• Team’s Responsibility: He noted that the decision to pull down promotional material demonstrates the seriousness with which the creators are handling the public outcry.

The Legal Firestorm

The film, part of Netflix’s 2026 slate, landed in deep trouble within days of its teaser launch:

• Lucknow FIR: An FIR was registered at Hazratganj Police Station following a directive from UP CM Yogi Adityanath. The complaint alleges that the title Ghooskhor Pandat (Bribe-taking Pandit) is “deliberately framed” to target and insult the Brahmin community.
• Delhi High Court Petition: A writ petition was filed by Acharya Mahender Chaturvedi seeking an immediate stay on the film’s release, arguing that it promotes negative stereotypes and “collective defamation.”
• NHRC Notice: The National Human Rights Commission has reportedly issued a notice to the I&B Ministry, raising concerns that the title vilifies a social group and violates the social fabric of the country.

Director’s Clarification: Fictional Cop Drama

Director Neeraj Pandey has also issued a formal apology and clarification:

• Colloquialism: He explained that “Pandat” is merely a colloquial name for the fictional protagonist and is not intended to represent the community at large.
• Damage Control: All promotional teasers and posters have been taken down from social media platforms for the time being.

Quick Look: Ghooskhor Pandat (2026)