BJP’s Shazia Ilmi charges journalist Rajdeep Sardesai with objectification | WATCH

Former TV journalist and BJP spokesperson Shazia Ilmi has accused India Today Television and consulting editor Rajdeep Sardesai of objectifying her. The incident stems from the release of a video where Ilmi is seen removing her lapel mic, which was recorded by a cameraman. The controversy began during a debate show on India Today Television, where Ilmi's audio was muted, prompting her to leave the show in protest.

Ilmi's outburst on social media

Following the incident, Ilmi took to social media platform X on Friday night, tagging Sardesai, India Today, and Aaj Tak. She expressed her frustration, stating, “Don’t you ever bring down my Fader again. Remember I have been on both sides and know how to handle bullies like you. BTW it doesn’t behove political propagandists masquerading as journalists to sermonise. And learn your facts before pitting one Ex-Army Chief against all other Defence Chiefs simply to create mischief.”

Ma’am, @shaziailmi I respect all my guests always. If anything, I am too indulgent: the fader is lowered only to avoid cross talk and noise on the show. If you have a grouse with me or with an army general on the show, of course that’s your prerogative. And I respect that too.… https://t.co/43atjurw75 pic.twitter.com/VjfmrrGWsz

— Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) July 27, 2024

Sardesai's response

In response to Ilmi's post, Sardesai released a video showing Ilmi removing her mic and asking the cameraman to leave her house. Sardesai wrote, “Ma’am, @shaziailmi I respect all my guests always. If anything, I am too indulgent: the fader is lowered only to avoid cross talk and noise on the show. If you have a grudge with me or with an army general on the show, of course, that’s your prerogative. And I respect that too. But for you to chuck the mic, abuse our video journalist and throw him out of your house is just NOT done. He was only doing his job. There is no excuse for bad behaviour. The rest I leave to you. Have a good weekend.”

To continue shooting a guest after the show is over or he/she has withdrawn consent to be part of it, is gross violation of the contract. Besides, for Rajdeep Sardesai to put out the video, while the lady is unwiring, is nothing short of sexual assault. The pervert must be called… https://t.co/Bs9Cb9j43k

— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) July 27, 2024

Reactions and further accusations

Ilmi defended her actions by calling the video evidence of the cameraman's behaviour after the show. Meanwhile, BJP IT cell head and national spokesperson Amit Malviya criticised Sardesai for sharing the ‘objectionable’ video publicly. Malviya stated that Sardesai must be called out for violating Ilmi’s privacy and bodily integrity.