NEW YORK (TIP): In a landmark move, a U.S.-based citizen has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court of India. It is challenging gender inequality, colorism, and wage disparities in the country’s powerful film industry.

Jason Zangara, a resident of the United States, submitted the petition as a “concerned individual from the outside.” He is aiming to spark long-overdue reforms in how female actors are treated and compensated in Indian cinema.

Key Issues Raised in the Petition

Zangara’s PIL is based on extensive research and documented evidence, highlighting three deeply rooted problems in the industry:

Colorism in Casting – A persistent preference for lighter-skinned actors in lead roles. For example, often sidelining darker-skinned talent despite their skill and suitability.

Gender Pay Disparity – Large wage gaps between male and female actors. Even when women lead the project or have equal screen presence and box office value.

Male Favoritism in Opportunities – Preferential casting, promotion, and career advancement for male actors, perpetuating patriarchal industry norms.

A Call for Global Change

“I’m tired of watching these women being treated this way,” Zangara told reporters. “It’s not just about entertainment – these portrayals and industry practices have real consequences for societal attitudes toward women and beauty standards.”

Although Zangara lives abroad, he believes that addressing such systemic issues in one of the world’s most influential film industries could trigger change beyond India’s borders.

“If the Supreme Court takes action, it could set a precedent that inspires workplace equality not just in India, but around the world,” he said.

Potential Industry Impact

It potentially places the film industry under direct legal scrutiny. Advocacy groups and gender equality activists have already expressed strong support for the initiative. If admitted, this PIL could pave the way for more public interest litigations tackling representation, diversity, and workplace fairness in other industries across India.

Observers believe that a legal precedent could pressure producers, casting directors, and talent agencies to adopt transparent hiring and pay practices. This shift could not only redefine Bollywood’s image but also inspire similar reforms in regional cinema, making the Indian film industry a global example of progressive change in entertainment.