Rakesh Bedi apologized with folded hands, problems increased due to use of forbidden word in interview

News India Live, Digital Desk: Well-known Bollywood and TV actor Rakesh Bedi is currently embroiled in an unwanted legal dispute. Recently, during an interview given to a YouTube channel, he used a word which is prohibited from speaking in public under Indian law. Amidst the uproar on social media following this statement and allegations of hurting the sentiments of the Scheduled Caste community, the actor has released a video and publicly apologized. Rakesh Bedi clarified that his intention was not to insult anyone.

Unintentional mistake: Rakesh Bedi’s clarification

Rakesh Bedi said in his apology video that that word came out of him in flow during the interview. He admitted that he was not aware that the Government of India and the Hon’ble Court had banned the public use of this specific word (Harijan). The actor said emotionally, “I am an artiste and my job is to make people laugh and happy, not to hurt anyone. If my words have hurt the sentiments of any society or individual, then I apologize with folded hands.”

What was the whole controversy?

The controversy started when Rakesh Bedi used a ‘forbidden word’ in the context of a particular community while talking about his old films and his days of struggle. As soon as the video went viral, Dalit organizations and groups like Bhim Army objected to it and called it a violation of the Constitution and law. At some places, there was a demand to lodge a complaint against the actor, immediately after which Rakesh Bedi corrected his mistake and issued a clarification.

What does the law say? Ban on ‘forbidden words’

In India, using certain words as caste remarks is considered a crime under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The Supreme Court and various governments have from time to time issued strict directions regarding the use of ‘Harijan’ and other derogatory terms. Experts say that public figures should pay special attention to language decorum and legal provisions while giving interviews, because their words have a deep impact on the society.

Fans and industry support

After Rakesh Bedi’s apology, mixed reactions are being seen on social media. Many of his fans say that since he has accepted his mistake and apologized, the matter should not be blown out of proportion. At the same time, some colleagues from the industry have also defended Rakesh Bedi and described him as a clean hearted person. At present, the actor has also requested to remove that interview from the concerned channel or edit the controversial part so that no further controversies arise in future.