Assam State Film Awards 2023 tainted once more by controversy, as awardees' payments bounced

Digital Desk: The 8th Assam State Film Awards ceremony, which was already tainted by controversy after singer Nahid Afrin purportedly won Best Playback Singer for a song she did not sing, is again hit by another controversy. On March 17, several payments issued to recipients bounced, causing public backlash. 

The issue with the bounced checks has fueled the ongoing debate surrounding Nahid Afrin's Best Female Vocalist award. The Pratima Pandey Barua Award for Best Playback Singer (Women) was supposedly given to the singer Nahid Afrin for the song 'Neelate Luka Bhaku' from the film Nijanor Gaan, which was purportedly sung by Zubeen Garg and Rupjyoti. 

The cheques, signed by Cultural Affairs Director Meenakshi Das Nath, bounced on March 17, garnering criticism from a variety of sources.

In response to the incident, Cultural Affairs Minister Bimal Bora stated that the checks bounced due to a bank delay. He went on to say that an investigation had been launched and that the department's secretary will look into the matter.

This occurrence has left the awardees, who were eagerly awaiting their deserved dues for their contributions to Assamese cinema. So many recipients expressed their anger and frustration on social media, urging a fast resolution to the situation. 

Regardless of the ongoing controversy, several talented directors, actors, and professionals were honoured for their contributions to Assamese filmmaking. Several prominent industry figures and government officials attended the awards ceremony.

Unfortunately, the incident involving the bounced cheques has tainted the celebration of the Assamese film industry, raising major concerns about the integrity and accountability of the awards system.

It remains to be seen how the authorities will settle the ongoing disputes and reestablish public trust in the Assamese film industry.