Richa Chadha on sexual harassment in Bollywood

Actor Richa Chadha says while it is brave of people to accept that sexual harassment happens in Bollywood, one cannot “name and shame” as there is no guarantee of getting work after.

Chadha says she was attacked for a blog post regarding the sexual harassment situation “even by feminists who asked why don’t you name and shame?”

“If you give me pension for life, take care of my safety, my family, ensure I’ll continue to get work in films and TV or whatever I want to do, my career will grow unabated as it is right now after I name and shame somebody, sure I will,” she said. “Not just me, million others will do that. But who will do it?”

The actor believes the film industry lacks a proper ecosystem, which will provide a safety net for victims.

“Every time someone speaks up, there are repercussions. Whoever is speaking out, people are like ‘oh you’ve to name and shame.’”

“Every time we take a step, there is a backlash. The ecosystem and the structure of the industry needs to change. We don’t have royalties here for actors — in absence of proper legislations, who will take a risk?” she added.

The 30-year-old actor says that to switch off from negativity she sometimes stops watching news.

“I have a strong sense of justice. I speak up about things close to my heart. But I think I am a little too emotional. Events in the world affect me,” she added.

Chadha is currently excited for the release of her latest, Fukrey Returns, which is now playing in UAE cinemas.

source: AFP