Hamza Ali Abbasi's 'random thoughts' on sexual harassment are more random than expected
After a long period of silence, Pakistani celebs are finally offering their views on Meesha Shafi's allegations of sexual harassment against Ali Zafar yesterday — and as one would expect, Hamza Ali Abbasi has a lot to say on the matter. Like, a lot.
First, Hamza seems to say that 'modernism' is the reason why harassment exists and the line between flirting and harassment has blurred.
We're not sure how he missed the fact that people have suffered sexual misconduct through the ages, not just in the 'modern' era. It's not exactly a new phenomenon.
He then has a brief moment of clarity, in which he seems to demonstrate an understanding of the power dynamics between the abuser and abused and why that keeps victims from exposing their abusers.
But he loses the point when he says that it's not the abuser's fault for not being able to recognise the power differential or grasp the concept of consent. Umm, what?
Next, he yo-yos back to his earlier point, saying that religion is the answer to this evil.
Who will preach this to the abusers, though?
Then, there's another bout of clarification, where he says it's blurred lines, blurred lines are the problem.
And finally, to end the matter, he thinks everyone should chill out and watch Motorcycle Girl, the story of a young woman who doesn't give two hoots about society's norms and does what her heart tells her to.
Hmmm.
The industry reacts
Apart from Hamza Ali Abbasi, a few more celebrities have shared their take on the subject. Most have stuck to safe statements.
Celebs like Mahira Khan and Armeena Khan have expressed their support for Meesha by calling out her victim-blaming, character-assassinating critics:
Some of Ali's peers in the industry have expressed their disbelief over the entire controversy:
Reham Khan has been vocal in her support of Meesha Shafi:
Fakhr-e-Alam is also in disbelief but hopes justice prevails:
Iffat Omer believes that Meesha Shafi has no reason to make up the allegations: