Bhubaneswar, Nov 3: Renowned Odia film producer Sanjay Nayak, popularly known as Tutu Nayak, has found himself in the midst of a controversy involving allegations of slapping a female journalist in Bhubaneswar.
The incident occurred at a film hall during a premiere event for an Odia film today. Several media personnel were present at the event to cover the premiere. A female journalist, identified as Debasmita Rout, working for a prominent local television channel, accused Nayak of physically assaulting her.
She alleged that during the premiere event, Nayak verbally abused her and later slapped her in the presence of other media representatives.
The incident has caused outrage among journalists and media professionals, who are demanding justice for Rout. Many have raised questions about the safety and respect accorded to female journalists in the industry.
Police have registered a case under various sections, including IPC Section 354 (outraging the modesty of a woman), Section 294 (using obscene language), Section 341 (wrongful restraint), and Section 323 (voluntarily causing hurt).
In his reaction over the incident Nayak responded, "The accusation is false. I was rushing to get to the Maharaja Film Hall. She was blocking the gate, so I gently tapped her on the back, requesting her to move aside. She's like a younger sister to me. I didn't harm her. If I inadvertently caused her any distress, I apologize for that."
