Choreographer Jani Master faces suspension by TFCC over rape investigation

The renowned choreographer, who is also a national award winner, has been accused of sexual misconduct, including rape and assault, by a former female assistant.

As the police probe rape allegations against Tollywood choreographer Shaik Jani Basha, also known as Jani Master, the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce (TFCC) revealed on Tuesday that it has established an internal committee to investigate the matter. In response to the allegations, the committee has temporarily suspended him from his role as president of the Telugu Film & TV Dance Directors Association pending the outcome of the inquiry.

The renowned choreographer, who is also a national award winner, has been accused of sexual misconduct, including rape and assault, by a former female assistant. The police have launched an investigation based on the survivor's complaint.

Tammareddy Bharadwaj, a member of the committee told PTI, "We received the complaint from the victim 15 days ago. We have recorded the statements of both the victim and the accused. We are in the process of getting the statements of witnesses. We will have to submit a report in 90 days. But we are hopeful that even before that we should be able to submit our report."

He also stated that the panel is required to produce a comprehensive report on the matter within 90 days of the date the victim's complaint is received.

Damodar Prasad, head of the sexual harassment redressal panel set up by the Film Chamber, stated that the Telugu Film and TV Dancers and Dance Directors Association has been instructed not to allow Jani Master to perform his duties as president until the allegations are resolved. Prasad also mentioned that the committee is investigating claims that Jani Master had recruited a minor as his assistant, noting that the victim was reportedly a minor when she joined his group.

Also Read: Jani Master alleged sexual abuse case: Telugu film chamber redressal panel steps in after FIR filed

The Cyberabad Police have filed a case against Jani Master after a woman accused him of sexual assault during outdoor shoots and an attack at her home. The Raidurgam police initially registered a zero FIR based on her complaint and subsequently transferred the case to the Narsingi police station, where the woman resides.

Despite reports that the survivor was a minor when the offenses took place, the FIR only includes charges related to repeated rape, criminal intimidation, and voluntarily causing rape. The Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act is not referenced in the current FIR.