Imtiaz Ali Faces Backlash Over Casting Couch Remarks at IFFI 2024

The filmmaker clarifies his comments on harassment in Bollywood after criticism from Vinta Nanda and others.

Imtiaz Ali's remarks at IFFI 2024 on casting couch and women's safety in Bollywood have drawn criticism from filmmaker-writer Vinta Nanda.
Ali stated that compromising does not guarantee success in the industry and emphasized the importance of self-respect for women in professional settings.
Vinta Nanda questioned why Ali, as a male filmmaker, was chosen to speak on women's issues, accusing him of downplaying the prevalence of the casting couch.
Ali clarified his comments on social media, stating he does not deny the existence of harassment in the industry and supports a zero-tolerance policy toward such behavior.
He also recanted an anecdote about ensuring Alia Bhatt's safety on the set of 'Highway,' describing the film's crew as exemplary and denying any misconduct occurred.