‘Hard to believe one would lie about being molested’

Ever since Pink (2016) released, Taapsee Pannu, who played one of the protagonists in the film, has been hailed as the flag-bearer for women’s issues. From talking about women empowerment, to starring in videos that address social issues, Taapsee is doing her bit to fulfil the responsibility. “I know that now, whatever I say will have to be carefully worded, as a lot of people are listening and looking up to me,” says Taapsee.

We bring her attention to the recent case of molestation charges by women against the founder of the production house, The Viral Fever, Arunabh Kumar. After an anonymous blog on sexual harassment by Indian Fowler went viral, several women have come to the fore with similar allegations against Arunabh. One of them was written by Reema Sengupta on Facebook, alleging that Arunabh had misbehaved with her. Taapsee says, she too, is shocked by the allegations and is assessing all information.

“When I heard about this, I picked up the phone to speak to some people at TVF. But I have been hearing completely opposite stories. It’s confusing. There are some women who have come out in the open with their names, alleging harassment. It is difficult to believe that someone would lie about being molested, especially when their identities and backgrounds are out in the open. I’ve told my friends who work at TVF to keep me updated. There are too many stories doing the rounds and at this point, it’s very difficult for me to form an opinion,” Taapsee says.

I’ve told my friends who work at TVF to keep me updated. There are too many stories doing the rounds

TAAPSEE PANNU, ACTOR

Social media has already declared me an offender... If there is a remote chance I’ve done any wrong, let me be persecuted

ARUNABH KUMAR, FOUNDER, THE VIRAL FEVER, WAS QUOTED

PHOTO: YOGEN SHAH