Dhurandhar 2 Drone Controversy: Mumbai Police File Case Over Unauthorised Aerial Filming in Fort Area

The team behind Dhurandhar 2 has landed in legal trouble after Mumbai Police registered a case over the alleged use of an unauthorised drone during filming in South Mumbai’s high-security Fort locality. Authorities confirmed that an FIR has been filed against the film’s location manager for violating aerial filming regulations in a sensitive zone.

According to officials, the complaint was lodged after surveillance teams noticed drone activity without prior clearance. The case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for wilful disobedience of lawful orders, highlighting the strict enforcement of security protocols in areas housing key government and financial institutions.

Drone use sparks security concerns

The Fort area is one of Mumbai’s most tightly monitored zones due to its proximity to administrative buildings, banks and historical landmarks. Any aerial equipment, including drones used for cinematography, requires prior approval from law enforcement agencies and aviation authorities. Investigators believe the production team failed to obtain the necessary permissions before deploying the drone to capture overhead shots.

Police intervention reportedly took place during the third day of the film’s shooting schedule. Officers issued a notice to the location manager after confirming the violation, and the FIR remains under investigation. Authorities have clarified that no arrests have been made so far, but further action may depend on the findings of the ongoing inquiry.

Large-scale shoot draws attention

The filming schedule had already attracted public interest after parts of the Fort complex were transformed into an elaborate street set designed to resemble a foreign location. The scale of the production, combined with heavy equipment and crew presence, drew the attention of both local residents and security officials. The unauthorised drone operation added to concerns over compliance with safety rules in a high-risk area.

Industry observers note that aerial shots have become increasingly popular in modern filmmaking, especially for action sequences and large-scale visuals. However, authorities have repeatedly emphasised that filmmakers must adhere to local regulations to avoid compromising security.

Authorities stress strict compliance

Officials reiterated that the use of drones in restricted zones is closely regulated to prevent potential threats and ensure public safety. The incident has renewed discussions within the film industry about the importance of obtaining all required clearances before filming in sensitive locations.

Production teams shooting in metropolitan hubs like Mumbai often navigate complex approval processes involving multiple departments. Experts say that while creative demands continue to grow, compliance with legal frameworks remains non-negotiable.

As the investigation progresses, the focus will remain on whether proper permissions were sought and whether any additional violations occurred during the shoot. The controversy surrounding Dhurandhar 2 underscores the increasing scrutiny faced by large-scale productions operating in urban security zones.