#MeToo: Film associations act against artistes accused of sexual harassment

The raging #MeToo movement led film associations CINTAA and IFTDA to react in the wake of sexual harassment allegations against actor Alok Nath and director Vikas Bahl.

The Producers Guild of India said it will form a committee to help the film fraternity to call out and report sexual harassment and abuse.

The Indian Film and Television Directors Association took a hard stand against “Queen” director Bahl for “outraging the modesty of his female colleague” and condemned his “predatory behaviour” against a female crew member of a film or TV unit, read a statement.

“We will not tolerate the abuse of power against our female professionals... In light of the events, IFTDA has taken a stern stand against Vikas Bahl by issuing a show cause notice and asked him to respond within one week, failing which his membership will be terminated,” read a statement signed by IFTDA President Ashoke Pandit.

They have further set up a Women’s Grievances Redressal Cell and a three-member all-women committee to create a safe place for its women professionals.

This apart, the Cine & TV Artistes Association (CINTAA) on Tuesday decided to send a show cause notice to Alok Nath, who has been accused of rape by “Tara” fame writer-producer Vinta Nanda. She says the actor, known for his ‘sanskaari’ on-screen image, raped her almost two decades ago. Alok has said the allegation was “absurd” as he “made her what she is”.

He told ABP News: “Neither I am denying this nor do I agree with it. It (rape) must have happened, but someone else would have done it. Well, I do not want to talk much about it. As for the matter, if it has come out, it will be stretched.”

CINTAA General Secretary Sushant Singh said a show-cause notice will be sent to Alok. He urged Nanda to file a complaint against “this vile creature” and added: “We extend you full support.” (IANS)