Last night turned out to be pretty eventful for those who were glued to the first and probably the biggest #MeToo case in Pakistan entertainment industry. Meesha Shafi finally shared her side of the story and defended each and every allegation leveled by Ali Zafar against her in an interview to a renowned media personality, Shahzeb Khanzada.
Pertinent to note here, it was Meesha’s first interview to a TV channel regarding the matter since she outed Ali Zafar last year on Twitter. Despite this, she didn’t flinch even once and answered all the allegations made by Ali with noticeable poise; reason why Pakistani twitter was seen rooting for Meesha big time after the show.
You know when Meesha said ‘ I decided I’m never gonna put myself in that state of vulnerability ever again’… it hit me so hard. It’s so important to raise women with that drive, of self preservation, of valuing your life, your safety, your freedom and protecting it at all costs
How dignified, strong and poised Meesha Shafi is in the face of slander and vicious character assassination of hers. More power to you and all the victims of #MeToo ✊ pic.twitter.com/vffd75XujE
The amount of strength it must have taken for @itsmeeshashafi to speak about this on national television I have immense respect for her justice will prevail I can only imagine what it’s like to be in her shoes especially right now https://t.co/5cgQk5REGc#MeeshaKoInsaafDo
A discernible difference between the TV appearances of the two, Meesha Shafi and Ali Zafar, was also observed and comparisons were with an international high profile #MeToo case of Kavanaugh and Forde.
Meesha Shafi: -Discusses the process that lead to her claim -Highlights the flaws in the legal system -Discusses why it was important for her to address it -Discusses the futility of discussing the campaign against her
What an outstanding and dignified interview by @itsmeeshashafi. No bullying, no name calling, no getting hysterical. Calmly spoke and addressed all questions and spoke about incidents and events that must have been extremely difficult to talk about. More power to you, Meesha.
Quranic verses and past awards in the background to show how religious he is, portraying his achievements and then crying after harrassing women. On the other hand, Meesha Shafi did no drama and spoke patiently and eloquently. This is how you do it. More power to Meesha. #MeToopic.twitter.com/liE6UuJjhK
People also took to Twitter to commend the host, Shahzeb Khanzada, for conducting the interview in a very professional and ethically sound manner.
Have been following #ShahzebKhanzada’s career for many years, and am consistently impressed by his decency and clarity of purpose. There is a kind of modesty about him—so rare on TV these days—behind which lies a secure, good spirit.
Shahzeb Khanzada saying you can’t invalidate a person’s claim of being harassed because they disclosed the experience months or years later was surreal. I honestly never thought I’d hear anyone on Pakistani television say that in plain, clear language. Angry, grateful tears
Shahzeb Khanzada set a fine example of HOW to interview a human being in a sensitive situation. Asked the necessary questions and set the right thoughts in motion. Respect. #ShahzebKhanzada
There was absolutely no better choice than Shahzeb Khanzada for this interview. Totally in awe of this person and the way he tackled the whole situation. Kudos man!
Mr @mubasherlucman being condescending towards Meesha and laughing it off with Ali Zafar and his wife while @shazbkhanzdaGEO is being a gentleman, knows that he is dealing with a sensitive issue and is consenting with @itsmeeshashafi before asking any type of question.
This is quite iconic and historic, how @itsmeeshashafi is conducting her response.
Kudos to @shazbkhanzdaGEO for being an empathetic and genuine journalist – for hearing Meesha out and treating this interview and issue with utmost respect and diligence.