Hyderabad: The Chairperson of the Telangana State Commission for Women, Nerella Sharada, has announced that the commission had to intervene due to delays in the police investigation related to sexual assault allegations against popular choreographer Shaik Jani Basha, also known as Jani Master.
A 21-year-old woman accused Jani Master of harassment and sexual assault over a period of six years. After filing a police complaint, she approached the Women’s Commission for further help. In response, Sharada stated, “We have ordered police protection for the victim and are forming a high-level monitoring committee to investigate such cases in the film industry.”
The victim provided a 40-page document as evidence, detailing the harassment she faced while working with Jani Master. The commission has recorded her statement and is now seeking legal advice to determine the next steps.
Sharada also pointed to a larger issue of workplace harassment, particularly in the film industry, and explained why many such incidents often remain unreported. “Women are often afraid to speak out due to fears of losing their jobs or being judged by society. Even when they come forward, their professional choices are questioned,” she said.
The Women’s Commission has emphasized the importance of enforcing the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act in all workplaces. They aim to create internal committees to handle such issues. “We are committed to making workplaces safer for women,” Sharada added.
Meanwhile, the Narsingi police under the Cyberabad Commissionerate have officially filed charges against Jani Master under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, following the victim’s allegations spanning six years.
