Guwahati: National Award-winning film critic Utpal Datta has come under allegations of sexual misconduct after Assamese filmmaker Rosy Borah publicly accused him of making her uncomfortable during a private gathering earlier this year.
In a video shared on social media, Borah claimed that the incident took place in January during a wedding anniversary celebration hosted by Datta and his wife, Namrata, at their residence.
According to Borah, she arrived at the couple’s home after 10 pm along with her daughter. “I have known the family for several years and have always considered them respectable,” she said.
She alleged that while she was standing near Utpal Datta for a photograph, he inappropriately placed his hand on her back, making her feel uncomfortable. She said, “I immediately removed his hand and stepped away,” India Today NE quoted Borah as saying.
She explained that she initially chose not to speak about the incident as she was shocked and uncertain about how to respond at that moment.
Borah said she kept the experience to herself for nearly two months before finally deciding to speak out through a video posted online.
“I remained silent for some time because I was shocked and did not know how to react,” she said.
“Later, I realised that many people hesitate to speak out because of the influence and social standing of those involved. I decided to raise my voice so that the next generation, including my daughter, does not have to face a similar situation,” she added.
After Borah shared her experience in a video on social media, it quickly drew widespread attention online.
Soon after, several women responded to the post, alleging that they had also received inappropriate remarks or messages from Datta in the past.
Datta is a prominent film critic in India and a recipient of the Best Film Critic award at the 71st National Film Awards. He has also been honoured with the Best Critic award at the Assam State Film Awards.
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An author of several books on cinema and a regular contributor to newspapers and magazines, Datta previously served as the director of the Chalachitram Film Festival in Guwahati, organised by the Vishwa Samvad Kendra, a nationwide media network associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. He later stepped down from the role.
However, Utpal Datta has not given any public statement regarding the allegations against him so far.
