Bollywood director Sajid Khan, who has been accused of sexual misconduct in four separate cases, has denied the charges leveled against him in response to a notice by the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA).
The former Housefull franchise director has apologized for causing embarrassment to the association for the alleged accusations aligned with his name, but he has categorically denied them, adding that such claims have tarnished his name and career.
“These allegations have not only caused irreparable harm to my career, but more importantly, grieved my mother and sister immensely. At the outset, I deny the complaints leveled against me as stated in your notice. I humbly request you to not to form any one-sided judgment. I am always happy to extend any cooperation to my association,” he stated.
Read: Sajid Khan steps down as director of ‘Housefull 4’ following sexual harassment accusations
After receiving a response from the director, the association has released a statement which said that as part of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act guidelines, the alleged harasser (Sajid) is given an opportunity to speak before any disciplinary action is taken. IFTDA has arranged a meeting on 1st November between Sajid and the association’s Internal Complaints Committee to hear him out.
Earlier Sajid, who has been accused by four women – a journalist, a former assistant and two actors – stepped down as director of upcoming film Housefull 4. Following the allegations, actress Bipasha Basu, who has worked him in Humshakals called him out for his lewd behavior on the sets. Dia Mirza, who made a cameo in Heyy Babyy, has also said that Sajid was obnoxious and extremely sexist.
Only time will tell what will be the result of this probe, but for now it is a welcome change that action has been taken against the accused through proper channels.
