Juhi Chawla's advice to women in the entertainment industry is very problematic

Bollywood's MeToo stories have shocked many in the industry and Juhi Chawla is the latest to join the bandwagon, however her statements on the issue are quite problematic.

In a brief interview when asked about the current harassment allegations, Juhi said that “It’s sad and a little shocking because the people being named are who we have known and respected… to hear their names coming up in these matters is a little disturbing.”

But then she addressed women in the entertainment industry and... in short she victim blamed.

“At the same time I would like to tell all the girls out there trying to make careers: Please stay focused on what you are really there for. Stay focused on your work. God will protect you and you will find your way, I mean we all did. Don’t get distracted by the frills and fancies that come with the profession. They will come as a result of your work, but don’t make that your work.”

There are a number of reasons why Juhi's statements are damaging to MeTooIndia and the movement in general.

First, "Please stay focused on what you are really there for. Stay focused on your work. Don't get distracted by the frills and fancies that come with the profession" implies that women who enter the entertainment industry for the perks are basically "asking for it".

There is nothing wrong with wanting a certain lifestyle for yourself, some women enter the industry hoping to change their [and in some cases, their familys'] lifestyles and lead better lives, it's the sexual predators who pry on the vulnerable ones and use them to their advantage knowing that they are desperate in their situation. If a woman is interested in the benefits that come with showbiz, she is still not "asking for it" and should not be objectified or harassed or assaulted.

Second, "God will protect you and you will find your way," trivialises the issue altogether. Sexual predators are everywhere, on the streets, at the workplace, even homes. Again, women are not "asking for it", no matter where they are or whatever clothing they are wearing; a sexual predator will take any chance as an opportunity.

Third, "You will find your way, I mean we all did" is another way of saying that just because she and her peers did not go through sexual harassment, the women who have been through the ordeal probably didn't conduct themselves better to save themselves from it - victim blaming at its best.

Juhi would've been better off addressing harassers and telling them to conduct themselves in a civilised manner by respecting all individuals rather than putting the blame on women for being sexually harassed.