Joyjit Banerjee’s reputation under fire over #MeToo allegations

The Bengali entertainment industry is reeling from a fresh #MeToo allegation, with a model accusing actor Joyjit Banerjee of sexual harassment. The model shared screenshots of alleged conversations with Anandabazar Online, detailing Joyjit’s alleged promises of film opportunities in exchange for a physical relationship.

According to the model, Joyjit reached out to her via Facebook Messenger three years ago and offered to help secure roles in Bengali films. However, their conversation reportedly took a darker turn, with Joyjit demanding a physical relationship and implying that “compromises” were necessary for success.

The model claims that Joyjit promised to divorce his wife to be with her but eventually stopped responding when she pressured him about his marital status. The model also claims that Joyjit’s wife knew about the situation but chose to ignore it and instead questioned the model’s decision to enter into a relationship with a married man.

The model provided screenshots of the conversations to Anandabazar Online, which corroborated their story. When questioned about the allegations, Joyjit denied wrongdoing, saying, “I don’t know anyone like that… We didn’t even speak on Messenger.”

Joyjit responded succinctly: “I will message that stranger through Anandabazar Online; I will meet you in the court.” The actor’s backlash comes amid growing outrage over the RG scandal and renewed focus on the safety of women in the Bengali film industry.

This development comes in the wake of the suspension of director Arindam Sil by the Directors Guild on multiple allegations. The incident highlights the ongoing struggle for accountability and justice in Tollywood.

The model’s courage to speak out has sparked a broader conversation about power dynamics and exploitation in the entertainment industry. Will their accusations lead to meaningful change?