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The shocking case of renowned Telugu choreographer Shaik Jani Basha, better known as Jani Master, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. Jani Master has confessed to sexually assaulting a junior colleague, a young woman who was a minor when the abuse began. This confession comes after his arrest and subsequent booking under the stringent Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act.
The survivor, now 21 years old, met Jani in 2017 during a dance reality show. He offered her a job as an assistant choreographer, a promising opportunity for someone aspiring to make a career in the film industry. However, this opportunity turned into a horrifying ordeal. The survivor alleges that Jani began sexually assaulting her during a hotel stay in Mumbai in 2020. She was accompanied by her mother for most of their outdoor shoots, but on this particular occasion, she did not receive her tickets in time and was left vulnerable. This incident marked the beginning of a six-year period of abuse that continued in various cities across India, including her own residence in Hyderabad.
The survivor endured not only the physical assault but also the constant fear and intimidation from Jani Master. He allegedly threatened her with violence if she spoke about her ordeal, exploiting her aspirations in the film industry by making her fear losing her job and future opportunities. This manipulative tactic is a common strategy used by perpetrators to silence their victims, emphasizing the importance of breaking the cycle of fear and creating a safe space for survivors to speak up.
The survivor's courage in finally coming forward after enduring six years of abuse is commendable. Her decision to file a formal complaint with the Telugu Film and TV Dancers and Dance Directors Association (TFTADD) and the police is a testament to her resilience and strength. This case highlights the need for stronger support systems and legal frameworks to protect vulnerable individuals within the entertainment industry and society at large.
Jani Master's confession and arrest have sent a strong message that perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions, regardless of their stature or influence. The police investigation is ongoing, and the evidence gathered, including witness testimonies and the survivor's detailed report, is crucial in ensuring justice is served. The suspension from the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce and a workers' union is a significant step towards holding him professionally accountable.
This case should serve as a wake-up call for the entertainment industry and society as a whole. It is imperative to create a culture where victims of sexual assault feel safe to speak out and are provided with the support they need to seek justice. We must also work towards preventing such abuse from happening in the first place, by fostering a culture of respect, consent, and accountability.
Source: Choreographer Jani Master confesses to sexual assault after arrest in Pocso case