After Kannada director Ere Gowda was accused of sexual harassment by a woman who worked under him, the producers of Balekempa, Zoo Entertainment have the withdrawn the movie that would have been his directorial debut.
“We, Zoo Entertainment, would like to offer our fullest support to the Me Too movement. We strongly believe in the equality of all people, and wish to express our solidarity with the Me Too movement towards making our society a safer and better place,” said a statement released by the production house.
“We note that the concerned person has chosen to remain anonymous. We understand that Gowda is yet to give his statement regarding the allegation. We find the allegation shocking, and are deeply disturbed and saddened. As the producers of Balekempa, directed by Ere Gowda, we feel a need to take decisive action regarding how we wish to take things forward with the film. As of now we are withdrawing the film from all its festival commitments until we have further clarity on the facts,” the statement added.