Director Sajid Khan, who was accused of sexual misconduct by three women, has been suspended by the Indian Film and Television Directors' Association (IFTDA).
Khan was accused by actress Rache White, journalist Karishma Upadhyay and assistant director Saloni Chopra of abusive conduct and sexual harassment. The three women had narrated their horrific experiences on their respective social media handles.
“The Committee investigated the complaints in the spirit of POSH Act [Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013] and in compliance of principles of natural justice, equity and fair play. The allegations in the complaints are serious instances of sexual harassment, unwelcome sexually determined behaviour, unwarranted contact by and advances, demands for sexual favours abuse of power by Sajid Khan,” IFTDA said in a statement.
The statement mentioned that Khan was given an opportunity to defend himself, but the director did not give any explanation. Khan denied the sexual molestation allegation, but admitted that his behaviour and language was impolite, that he had been brash and used [foul] language with his friends, which included boys and girls.
Earlier, Khan was dropped as director by producer Sajid Nadiadwala for the film Housefull 4. Nadiadwala was forced to act after lead actor Akshay Kumar had expressed reservation over resuming shooting for the film given the serious allegation that was made against the director. Khan was replaced by Farhad Samji.