Controversial Comments Spark Police Investigation into Online Harassment Case
Police Investigation Launched Following Online Harassment Claims
A controversy that began at a film event has escalated into a police investigation involving numerous individuals. Actress and presenter Anasuya Bharadwaj has reached out to the Cyberabad Cyber Crime Police, alleging a sudden surge in online harassment, abuse, and threats directed at her. Based on Anasuya's complaint, the Cyber Crime Police have filed cases against 42 individuals believed to have played a role in targeting her on social media platforms. This police action was prompted by intense online debates following comments made by actor Shivaji during the pre-release event of the film 'Dhandora', which sparked widespread criticism and discussions about misogyny and public discourse.
Escalation of Harassment Allegations
Anasuya reported that the harassment intensified from December 23 onwards. She claimed that after speaking out against Shivaji's remarks, she faced obscene comments, sexual exploitation, and threats on digital platforms. Among those named in the case are Bojja Sandhya Reddy, Priya Chaudhary Gogineni, Pawani, radio jockey Shekhar Basha, and Rajinikanth. The police have stated that further investigations are ongoing to assess the nature of the posts and the coordination behind the online attacks. This controversy is linked to comments made by Shivaji at the promotional event for 'Dhandora' earlier this week, which drew sharp online reactions regarding his remarks about women.
Public Figures Join the Conversation
Anasuya was among the first public figures to criticize these comments and share her thoughts on social media. However, her intervention led to her becoming a target of continuous online attacks, including derogatory comments about her age and personal abuse. On December 25, Anasuya responded to these abuses with a post in Telugu on X, delivering a strong rebuttal to her detractors. She stated, 'Today, I will say one last thing. Because I have not been able to say anything on this issue, men and women are shaming me about my age and calling me aunty. Yet, they address him with respect. I am a hypocrite for some reason. I am 40 years old, and he is probably 54 years old.'