Singer and activist Chinmayi Sripaada has once again spoken out about the sexual abuse allegations against choreographer Jani Master. Her remarks come shortly after Jani shared photos of himself with music composer AR Rahman from the sets of Peddi that sparked online backlash.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Chinmayi revealed that she had spoken to AR Rahman about Jani’s involvement in the project, and the composer “had no idea” about the case. She also claimed that Jani’s wife, Ayesha, contacts her every time she publicly addresses the issue — urging her to remain silent.
Also Read: A.R. Rahman faces backlash for working with sexual harassment accused choreographer Jani Master
“Plus - Each time I speak about this issue, his wife calls saying don’t talk about it. They are 100% sure of being proven innocent apparently - Well all the best to them. Their confidence is everything,” wrote Chinmayi.
Chinmayi emphasisd that the case is far from a matter of consent. She pointed out that Jani is accused of sexually abusing and grooming a minor who worked under him. “His personal ecosystem paints it as a ‘consensual relationship’ not understanding that a minor girl of 16 CANNOT GIVE CONSENT. When one is the adult, it is the adult's responsibility to not get involved with a minor,” she wrote.
Chinmayi further alleged that Jani’s “wealth and heavy connections” might affect the pursuit of justice. “The chances of the girl getting justice in this ecosystem are slim,” she said, adding that the power imbalance in such cases often leads to victims being silenced while abusers go unpunished.
She also warned that if the verdict favours the choreographer, it will set a dangerous precedent. “When the inevitable happens, everyone will say ‘he is innocent’ and give him awards and work, not understanding we would have collectively failed and in a direct aftermath, encouraged more such men to misuse their position of power.”
Concluding her statement, Chinmayi expressed hope that the survivor would one day rise above societal stigma and find success. “I can assure you - he will be around for a long time celebrated by the very masses - All I can hope and pray is that the girl also becomes successful and can prove a point to the very society that celebrates her abuser,” she said.
In September 2024, Jani Master was arrested in Goa and brought to Hyderabad after a 21-year-old woman filed a complaint accusing him of sexual assault, harassment, and intimidation during a 2020 work trip to Mumbai. The alleged victim was a minor at the time, leading to the inclusion of POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act charges. Jani is currently out on bail, and the case remains under trial.
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