Jennifer Mistry Bansiwal has stirred the entertainment industry by taking legal action against the producer of the popular television show “Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah” for alleged s*xual harassment following her departure from the series. Despite no initial response from the Mumbai Police, Jennifer sought assistance from the government of Maharashtra, resulting in the establishment of a Local Complaint Committee. In a significant turn of events, the committee reached a decision within four months, finding Asit Modi guilty of the allegations. Consequently, he was instructed to settle Jennifer’s pending payments along with an additional compensation of 5 lakh rupees.
Pinkvilla recently interviewed Jennifer, who expressed her dissatisfaction with the verdict during the conversation.
In a recent interaction with a leading tabloid, Jennifer Mistry Bansiwal, known for her role as Roshan Sodhi in “Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah,” disclosed her disappointment with the ruling. She articulated, “Throughout this ordeal, I remained convinced that the truth would prevail. Hence, the verdict doesn’t come as a surprise to me. However, I find the awarded compensation of 5 lakh rupees inadequate for the mental anguish endured over a year.” Reflecting on her experience, she shared, “Only I can comprehend the suffering I endured during this period. I faced public scrutiny, endured accusations of fabrication, and witnessed my career suffer irreparable damage due to the labels assigned to me by Asit Modi.” She continued, “He propagated false narratives about my conduct on set, tarnishing my professional reputation. This has had a detrimental impact on my career trajectory. There were moments when I contemplated ending my life, but the thought of my young daughter held me back. I am resolved to pursue justice through the High Court. Accepting a meager compensation would imply that one can evade accountability for inflicting immense distress and trauma upon others by merely offering financial settlement. That is not the essence of my battle.”
Jennifer also shed light on the repercussions of the controversy on her professional opportunities.
When questioned about instances of work denial, Jennifer disclosed, “Casting directors have subtly conveyed to me that producers are apprehensive about hiring me due to the ongoing legal proceedings, fearing potential media controversies. I anticipated this consequence when opting for legal recourse and was prepared to face it.”
Regarding her financial situation, Jennifer shared insights into her coping mechanisms.
She explained, “Fortunately, I come from a financially stable background with savings to rely on. My husband, who is also an actor, supplements our income through advertisement projects. Additionally, I engage in social media collaborations to sustain financially. While we manage to make ends meet, the stability of a fixed income from ‘Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’ is sorely missed. Several months of dues remain unpaid.”
As for her next steps, Jennifer asserted her intention to escalate the legal proceedings.
She stated, “When asked if I accept the verdict, I expressed dissent and indicated my intention to approach the High Court. I am yet to confer with my legal counsel regarding further action.”
Following Jennifer Mistry Bansiwal’s departure, the show introduced Monaz Mevawala as the new Roshan in “Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.”