Jami names Dawn CEO Hameed Haroon as alleged rapist; Haroon rejects accusation.

KARACHI -- Filmmaker Jamshed Mahmood, who in October came forward with the accusation that he was raped by a 'media tycoon' 13 years ago, has named Dawn CEO Hameed Haroon as his alleged rapist.

The director, popularly known as Jami, made the accusation in a tweet on Saturday night from a new Twitter account he created, allegedly due to his previous account being hacked. He also shared the accusation on his Facebook page.

In response, Haroon on Monday issued a statement categorically rejecting the rape accusations. "The story is simply untrue and intentionally fabricated at the instance of those who wish to silence me and through me, to compel the newspaper that I represent to support their repressive narrative," said Haroon, adding that he will initiate legal action.

"I am initiating legal action to clear my name and reputation, and to safeguard the freedom of the press by bringing to justice all those responsible for these false and malicious allegations against me," said Haroon. (Full statement below)

Jami is a prominent name in Pakistan's entertainment industry. He directed the film O21 in 2014 as well as Moor which became Pakistan's submission for the 2015 Oscars. Haroon is a well-known figure in the media fraternity and has been active in cultural preservation and conservation in Pakistan through his involvement in numerous trusts and organisations.

The following statement has been issued by Hameed Haroon: "For some three months now, tweets in the social media and some print media, some of which have been authored or prompted by Jami Raza, have alleged that Jami was subjected to rape many years ago but was 'coming out' only now because the rapist was an 'influential and powerful media personality'. Hitherto fore, strangely the alleged rapist was never specifically named, even though hints and innuendos were dropped from time to time that could be taken as suggesting that it was the CEO of Dawn, Hameed Haroon. "But since I had not been specifically named in the tweets, I was advised, that even though I had a fair idea of who was prompting Jami Raza, I should exercise restraint until I was specifically named. On 28th December, Jami Raza specifically named me and it has therefore become necessary to respond.

"At the outset, I reiterate my commitment to come to the aid and support of victims of rape, sexual assault and harassment. I unequivocally condemn such dastardly acts whenever and wherever these occur and in whatever shape or form...

To continue reading

Request your trial

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT