Dawn Images

Speaking at Geo News show Lekin yesterday, actor Ayesha Omar revealed that she has been a victim of "serious harassment" by a member of the industry. She added that she doesn't have the strength to talk about it right now.

"I hope I'm as brave as Meesha Shafi one day," she said. "The thing is that it's when people like Meesha come forward, that other people draw the strength to tell their stories."

Sharing her views about the 'rumours' that Meesha's allegations are a publicity stunt or personal grudge, Ayesha emphasised that Meesha has nothing but "negative publicity" to gain from the controversy: "She's getting all kinds of vulgar comments, angry reactions, accusations. And she's lucky enough to have a supportive family. I know she's a bold, outspoken woman and won't stand for any injustice. But for her to still take so long to come forward... what about the all the other women who endure this and don't have the strength to come forward -- whether in their families or publically. If they don't have strong examples like Meesha, how will they be inspired to gain a voice as well."

When asked what she thinks Ali Zafar's response to the allegations, Ayesha said, "Ali Zafar's one of the biggest actors in our industry, I've known him since childhood, he's a friend of mine, but that doesn't mean anything. If there is no proof of [what he's been accused of], Ali has a right to deny anything. i would do the same. But that doesn't mean we can doubt the honesty or intentions of the accuser."

Images has reached out to Ayesha Omar for a comment on the matter.