Why stay silent for four years? Arsalan Butt questions Mamya Shajaffar’s claims
The dispute between Pakistani actors Arsalan Butt and Mamya Shajaffar has taken another turn, with Arsalan publicly rejecting the harassment allegations against him and accusing his fellow actor of exploiting the controversy for publicity.
During his recent appearance on the ‘Voice of Click Me Pakistan’ podcast, Arsalan addressed the accusations levelled against him, insisting that the claims were baseless and lacked evidence.
Responding to a question about Mamya's allegations that he behaved inappropriately towards her, the actor said, “This is an extremely disgusting allegation to make against someone. It has no basis at all. The person who made these claims will answer in court.”
When asked why he believed Mamya would allegedly tarnish his image, Arsalan questioned the timing of her accusations.
“Why me? Why didn't she speak up four years ago? Why was she silent? Why was no legal action taken against me back then? These are the questions I want answers to,” he said.
The actor further argued that had such an incident occurred with a woman from his own family, he would have immediately sought justice rather than waiting years to take action.
Suggesting that the controversy may have been used for personal gain, Arsalan remarked, “If there was a film or project coming up, then perhaps someone wanted to cash in on it.”
He also revealed that he has initiated legal proceedings against Mamya Shajaffar, stating that he has filed both a complaint with the relevant cybercrime authorities and a defamation suit, which are currently pending before the courts.
The podcast discussion sparked heated debate online. While some social media users supported Arsalan's stance, others defended Mamya's right to speak about uncomfortable experiences regardless of how much time had passed.
One user wrote, “He is absolutely right.”
Another commented, “Every woman has the right to speak up when she feels uncomfortable, pressured, or harassed, no matter when it happens.”
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Meanwhile, a third observed, “Not a single question he answered.”
It is important to mention that the controversy first erupted last month when Mamya Shajaffar appeared on actress Iffat Omar's podcast and recounted an unpleasant experience she allegedly faced in the entertainment industry, naming Arsalan Butt. Following her remarks, Arsalan pursued legal action, while Mamya later served him with a legal notice of her own.
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