Bengaluru: Recently, there has been a rise in incidents where actresses are sexually harassed in the film industry. In a new case, a fake producer was arrested by Rajajinagar police for allegedly taking a reality show winner to Mumbai under the pretext of giving her a movie opportunity and subjecting her to physical harassment.
The accused, Hemant Kumar (34), a resident of Annapoorneshwarinagar, had approached the actress in 2022 claiming to be a director and producer. He promised her the lead role in a movie titled “Richie” with a remuneration of ₹2 lakh, giving her an advance of ₹60,000. While filming had begun, the accused repeatedly delayed the shoot and pressured the actress to wear obscene costumes and perform indecently, also touching her inappropriately. The victim stated that the contract period ended, but the accused extended the contract claiming the movie was incomplete, forcing her to continue.
Alcohol and Threats:
The accused reportedly mixed alcohol in juice and attempted to sexually exploit the actress while filming it secretly on his mobile. He also verbally harassed her over the phone and threatened her with goons when she refused to cooperate for movie promotions in other locations.
The incident has shocked the film community and highlights ongoing issues of sexual harassment in the entertainment industry.
