TVF founder Arunabh Kumar accused of sexual harassment by former employees

Various women associated with the web entertainment firm The Viral Fever (TVF) have alleged sexual harassment by its founder and CEO Arunabh Kumar. However, the company defended Kumar, while claiming that the charge was “categorically false, baseless and unverified”.

An anonymous blog went viral on social media on Monday alleging molestation by Kumar of a woman who has claimed to be a former employee at TVF.

She shared an article on the blog where she alleged that Kumar molested her several times during her stint at the company from 2014-2016. In the last two days, some more women have come forward on Facebook and Twitter backing her claim and narrating their experiences with Kumar.

In an official statement, TVF denied the allegations against its founder. “All the allegations made against TVF and its team in the article are categorically false, baseless and unverified. We take a lot of pride in our team and in making TVF a safe workplace that is equally comfortable for women and men.

“We will leave no stone unturned to find the author of the article and bring them to severe justice for making such false allegations,” it said. Nidhi Bisht, writer-director with TVF, took to Facebook and said she feels TVF is “one of the best places for women to work”.

“Let me clarify, that TVF has zero tolerance towards workplace harassment and an investigation will be conducted and appropriate actions will be taken. We have a Prevention of Sexual Harassment committee, backed by Legal and HR which deals with such issues...

“I would request women to come forward, without fear and lodge a formal complaint. Be rest assured, that due actions will be taken and we’ll get to the bottom of the issue,” she wrote.

Kumar, an IIT graduate, founded TVF in 2011. Meanwhile, Joint Commissioner of Mumbai Police (Law and Order) Deven Bharti said, “We appeal that such women should lodge a complaint and strong action will be taken.”