In lieu of the allegations of sexual misconduct against members of AIB, video streaming service Hotstar cancels production of third season of ‘On Air with AIB’.
Star India’s streaming platform Hotstar issued a statement and said that it “will not stand by anything” which compromises on the respect or safety of women. The statement read, “In light of recent events involving AIB, we are cancelling the production of On Air with AIB Season 3, with immediate effect. We are deeply concerned by these developments, which run contrary to our values as a responsible platform, and will not stand by anything that compromises the respect or safety of women.”
Rohan Joshi, who is a founder of the comedy group, wrote on Instagram that, “We have been informed by the team at Hotstar that there will be no further episodes of On Air With AIB, effective immediately.” In yet another story, he said, “I want to thank every single person who has ever worked on the show in any capacity, from every last set assistant to anyone who ever wrote a single word on it. If you see On Air on someone’s CV, hire ’em. You won’t be disappointed.” He added, “I would also like to thank the team at Star for their support over the year. Also, much love to anyone who ever watched an episode, and especially the show’s loyal fans. Thank you all, crew and audience alike, for letting me live out a boyhood dream; My own news comedy show. It has been one of the defining experiences of my life.”
For those unversed, Tanmay Bhatt came under the radar for not initiating action against Utsav Chakraborty despite knowing about his misconduct and Gursimran Khamba was accused of forcing himself on a woman. On Monday, the group announced that the members who had been accused, will be stepping down from their positions in the organisation immidiately.
Also read: #Metoo: AIB founders Tanmay Bhatt, Gursimran Khamba out ‘until furthur notice’