&TV releases statement over Papon’s kissing controversy
Singer and musician, Papon has been embroiled in controversy after he was spotted in a Facebook live video planting a kiss on a minor.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday night backstage during the shoot of ‘The Voice India – Kids’, has led to the broadcaster issuing a statement about the same. Papon is a judge on the reality show.
The statement said, “We as a channel have always been focused on the safety, security and well-being of the contestants participating in our shows. We have always adhered to the NCPCR guidelines and our production house, Essel Vision Productions Limited has taken all precautionary measures required under NCPCR and other laws. We believe in nurturing talent with utmost sensitivity and care while we provide them the platform to showcase their aptitude.
As a responsible channel, we are extending complete support to all parties who are impacted by this incident and will stand by them to help them through this situation.”
The girl’s father also released a statement about the incident, “Papon sir is a mentor and a father figure to my daughter and has always encouraged her to pursue her dreams. He doesn’t differentiate amongst the children who are here and gives them equal guidance on pursuing their dreams. What you saw in the video is not intentional. It was just a moment of affection that is being portrayed otherwise. I would request and urge the media to not pursue this further.”
Supreme Court lawyer Runa Bhuyan filed the complaint with the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights against Papon under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) Act.
