Tehran, Nov 6, (dpa/GNA) – A young Iranian actress has come forward as the complainant, in a MeToo sexual assault case, allegedly involving one of the country’s most successful film stars, Pejman Jamshidi.
“I don’t want any girl or woman’s life to be threatened by similar experiences,” actress Melika Parsadust wrote on Instagram, as reported by Iranian media. Parsadust is reported to be 20 years old.
“That’s why I defend my rights to the end, not out of vindictiveness, but so that such behaviour does not become the rule, and others are not forced to endure similar things,” she wrote.
Jamshidi, 48, has strongly denied the allegations.
About two weeks ago, he was anonymously accused of rape. The case has since then dominated headlines, with wide speculation as to who had made the allegation until Parsadust was revealed as the complainant. It triggered a nationwide debate about power and sexual violence.
The film star was briefly detained, and then left the country when he was released on bail, stating family reasons.
He made an emotional statement speaking of “slander” against him and of “lies and fabrications.” He said he planned to return to Iran.
GNA