Stree 2 Choreographer Jani Master’s National Film Award Suspended by I&B Ministry Over Rape Allegation
Recently, choreographer Jani Master, whose real name is Shaik Jani Basha, was arrested in Goa and brought to Hyderabad after being accused of rape by an ex-female employee. However, later, on 3 October, he was granted an interim bail to attend the National Film Awards.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has now suspended his National Award amid the rape allegations. The letter, signed by deputy director Indrani Bose, states, “The letter to attend National Film Award function for the year 2022 had been extended to Shri Shaik Jani Basha before the allegations of crime under POCSO Act came to light.”
“In view of the seriousness of the allegation and the matter being subjudice, the Competent Authority has decided to suspend the National Film Award of the Best Choreography for the Year 2022 to Shri Shaik Jani Basha for the film Thiruchitrambalam until further orders. Hence, the invitation extended to Shri Shaik Jani Basha for the 70th National Film Awards Function to be held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi on 8.10.24 is hereby withdrawn,” the statement concluded.
According to reports, Jani Master was granted interim bail from 6 to 10 October to attend the National Film Awards, where he would be awarded for his work on the song Megham Karukatha from Dhanush and Nithya Menen’s movie, Thiruchitrambalam.
The victim, now 21, alleged that Jani asked for ‘sexual favors’ if she wanted to work. She stated that the choreographer first raped her in 2019, and sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions. Denying the allegations, Jani said, “She introduced herself through a show. She lied about being sexually assaulted as a minor. I recognised her talent and gave her an opportunity as an assistant choreographer. The victim used to torture me mentally to marry her. Many times she threatened me.”
Jani Master was charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. He faces charges under IPC sections 376 (rape), 506 (criminal intimidation), and 323 (voluntarily causing hurt).
See Also: Stree 2 Choreographer Jani Master Granted Interim Bail In Rape Case To Attend National Film Awards Ceremony
