The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) has suspended choreographer Jani Master’s National Film Award following rape allegations involving a minor. The decision was announced on Friday, as the Ministry’s National Film Awards Cell withdrew the award Jani had won for Best Choreography for the song “Megham Karukkatha” from the Tamil film Thiruchitrambalam.
Jani Master, whose real name is Shaik Jani Basha, had shared the National Award with fellow choreographer Sathish Krishnan. However, in light of the ongoing legal case, the Ministry has decided to hold off on granting the prestigious honor.
Ministry’s Statement
In an official letter, signed by Deputy Director Indrani Bose, the National Film Awards Cell stated:
“In view of the seriousness of the allegation and the matter being subjudice, the Competent Authority has decided to suspend the National Film Award of the Best Choreography for the Year 2022 to Shri Shaik Jani Basha for the film Thiruchitrambalam until further orders.”
The letter also revoked Jani Master’s invitation to the National Film Award ceremony, which is scheduled to take place in New Delhi on October 8. Jani had been granted interim bail earlier this week, specifically to attend the event.
The Allegations and Legal Case
Jani Master was arrested by the Cyberabad police in Goa on September 19, after a former assistant choreographer lodged a complaint accusing him of sexual assault. According to the victim’s statement, the incidents occurred in 2020 during a work trip to Mumbai. The victim also alleged continued sexual harassment and threats from Jani Master, aimed at keeping her silent.
The Narsingi Police in Hyderabad registered the case on September 15, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including 376(2)(n) for repeated rape, 506 for criminal intimidation, and 323 for causing hurt. Upon further investigation, it was revealed that the victim was a minor at the time of the alleged assault, leading to the inclusion of charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
The victim also accused Jani of sexually assaulting her multiple times across various locations, including shooting spots and her residence. According to her statement, Jani had harassed her for sexual favors and allegedly coerced her into marrying him.
Judicial Proceedings
Jani Master was remanded to 14-day judicial custody following his arrest. The case is still under investigation, with the courts yet to decide the next course of action. Jani has denied the allegations.
The suspension of Jani Master’s National Film Award is a significant move by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, signaling its stance on serious criminal charges, especially those involving minors. The Ministry clarified that the award suspension will remain in effect until further orders.
About Jani Master
Jani Master is a well-known choreographer in the Indian film industry, with credits in multiple films across South Indian cinema. He gained wide recognition for his work in several blockbuster films, and his choreography for Thiruchitrambalam was highly praised. The recent legal developments have cast a shadow over his professional achievements, as the industry awaits the outcome of the court proceedings.
Sources By Agencies
