#MeToo: Alok Nath expelled from CINTAA, Vinta Nanda welcomes move
The Cine and TV Artistes' Association (CINTAA) expelled actor Alok Nath, accused of rape, on Tuesday, and his accuser Vinta Nanda welcomed the move. CINTAA, in a statement, said they took the decision after Alok didn't show up at ICC and Executive committee, despite being summoned. Vinta told The Quint, this shows everyone is accountable, no matter how late or early it is.
Backstory: Vinta said Alok raped her 18 years ago
After the #MeToo storm hit India, Vinta wrote a searing Facebook post, detailing how Alok raped her at her residence after a party. The allegations rocked the nation, but, fortunately, Vinta got support and emerged as a strong voice for survivors. Alok and his wife filed a defamation suit asking the court to stop Vinta from giving public interviews, but the court rejected it.
After allegations of sexual misconduct, CINTAA takes decision
Taking cognizance of the complaint, CINTAA summoned Alok. "Now CINTAA has asked him to be present in its annual general meeting on 1st May and if he fails to put his point, he will be permanently expelled from CINTAA," said Amit Behl, Sr Joint Secretary CINTAA. The association said the decision was taken after due consideration.
CINTAA expels Alok
In view of the various allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct against Mr. Alok Nath, after due diligence and consideration, the Exec. Committee of #cintaa has decided to expel him from the Association. @sushant_says @renukashahane @FIA_actors @sagaftra @RichaChadha pic.twitter.com/tcNgooWLW6
— CINTAA_Official (@CintaaOfficial) November 13, 2018
Vinta says the decision will set a good example
Vinta called the move a landmark one and said the body has set a good example. She said this sends out a clear message that no one can act the way they want to, like earlier, and get away with it. "No matter how late or early it is, if you are a part of an industry, you are accountable," she said.
This is not just about one case: Vinta
Further, Vinta said this was not about just her case, and sent a clear message. She said since ICCs were formed, hundreds of complaints came to Screenwriters' Association. "I do believe this is a very solid, collective call being taken by CINTAA," she said. Nath, who is famous for playing roles of father, was seen in 2018 release 'Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety'.
