On Friday, former tennis star Mahesh Bhupathi wrote a powerful statement on Twitter, calling on people in powerful positions to ‘stop engaging’ with men who’ve been accused of sexual harassment.
Bhupathi wrote, “As women around the country continue to share their horrific stories, most people in a position of power — influencers, as they’re popularly called — have chosen to stay silent on the matter.”
He discussed how former Miss Universe and actor Lara Dutta Bhupathi, told a digital digital platform that she will not be accepting any work through casting director Mukesh Chhabra’s company.
He said that it might be the right thing to do, but “..not sure if it’s enough, though.” Mincing no words, Bhupathi said “the cream of the industry has refused to support the movement. Sajid Khan is not directing Housefull 4 anymore, but is that enough?”
He also noted how ‘the famous and the powerful in the country’ have hob-nabbed with Suhel Seth yet none have spoken up on the allegations against him either. “..the men must understand that even if you played your part by being a silent spectator to injustice, now is your chance to set things right,” he added.
Also Read; #MeToo: Suhel Seth Disappears From Public Eye As Allegations Of Sexual Harassment Pile Up
“I think it’s important for people to understand what those accused in the Me Too movement have been doing. They have systematically been “preying’’ on women — and in some cases men — who are chasing a dream.. of a job, role, a promotion, a break.”
He said that he was prompted to speak up because someone in the talent industry informed him that everyone is waiting for the movement to fizzle out in a month or so, after which, it will be ‘business as usual’.
“I am as guilty as anyone of remaining silent. I have heard stories, directly and indirectly, but I chose to ignore them since ‘business is business.’ But that stops today.
He said he will be ending all engagements with Suhel Seth, Vikas Bahl, Anirban Blah, Chetan Bhagat, Sajid Khan and Anu Malik. He has engaged with them personally or professionally in the past.
“To all those who are in a position of influence through their massive social platforms, I have a simple appeal: Stop engaging. Alienate these “serial predators.” Show them that while the law and investigative agencies will take their course, society should — and will — reject them,” he wrote.