As the global MeToo Movement is at an all-time high, abundant cases have also been reported from the Indian media fraternity alleging celebrities like Alok Nath, Nana Patekar, Rajat Kapoor, Sajid Khan, Subash Ghai, Vikas Behl, Anu Malik, and Kailash Kher amongst others for sexually abusing women at various instances.
Recently, renown Indian painter, Jatin Das has been accused of sexual harassment with as many as four women. Nisha Bohra has claimed Jatin molested her at his studio 14 years ago. In a post, Malvika Kundu has alleged that Jatin also misbehaved with her when she was just 18. Garusha Katoch has also shared her account of alleged harassment at the hands of Jatin via Twitter. Journalist Anushree Majumdar says she had a weird experience with Jatin when she was a fresh graduate back in 2006.
Related: Everything You Need To Know About India’s Soaring #MeToo Movement
Notwithstanding all these allegations, Jatin Das has denied all claims saying, “It’s very vulgar. I don’t know what you people are trying to do here. I have nothing to do with this. I don’t know what more I can say.”
In the wake of severe allegations, his daughter and the well-acclaimed writer, director and producer, Nandita Das has come forward to still support the Me Too Movement despite the involvement of her father in a similar case. She maintains, “As a strong supporter of the #MeToo movement, I want to reiterate that I will continue to add my voice to it, despite the disturbing allegations made against my father, which he has categorically denied.” She also talks about the authenticity of the movement, “I have maintained from the very start that this is the time we all need to listen so that women (and men) feel safe to speak up. At the same time, it is also important to be sure about allegations so as not to dilute the movement. ” She concludes, “I am touched by the number of people – friends and strangers – who are concerned and are trusting my integrity. I do believe truth will prevail. And that is all I have to say on this matter.”
As a strong supporter of the #MeToo movement, I want to reiterate that I will continue to add my voice to it, despite the disturbing allegations made against my father, which he has categorically denied. I have… https://t.co/XjOaTHPN1o
— Nandita Das (@nanditadas) October 16, 2018
Known for his successful movies, director and producer, Sajid Khan has also been accused of sexual misconduct by as many as three women, including a journalist. Actress Saloni Chopra reminisces about the unforgettable time she spent with the director where he would ask her to give him sexual favors and upon her denial said that he will end her career. Journalist Karishma Upadhyay has also alleged Sajid of harassment. She says Sajid would ask her sexually-colored questions during an interview that made her rather “uncomfortable.” Actor Rachel White recounts an incident from the recent past when she met Sajid for the movie, Hamshakals. He initially tells her that his mother would be home but she wasn’t. ” He was directly staring down at me,” she says.
Following these lurid accusations, Sajid’s sister and the producer, director and choreographer, Farah Khan has taken to Twitter to support the movement. She says, “This is a heartbreaking time for my family. We have to work through some very difficult issues.” She went on to say, “If my brother has behaved in this manner he has a lot to atone for. I don’t in any way endorse this behavior and Stand in solidarity with any woman who has been hurt.”
This is a heartbreaking time for my family.We have to work through some very difficult issues. If my brother has behaved in this manner he has a lot to atone for.I don’t in any way endorse this behavior and Stand in solidarity with any woman who has been hurt.
— TheFarahKhan (@TheFarahKhan) October 12, 2018
We are super proud of Nandita and Farah for standing up for the victims and against their immediate family members. More power to you ladies, for your courage and courtesy!
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