LSA organisers release statement amid controversy

The Lux Style Awards organisers, Unilever has released a statement amid recent controversy after several nominees boycotted the awards for nominating an accused harasser.

"Respect, dignity and fair treatment are core principles at Unilever Pakistan," the statement reads. "We expect all our employees, partners, customers and associates to adhere to the principles. Any allegation of misconduct on anyone associated with Unilever Pakistan or our brands, is taken very seriously."

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxB5hSHgIba/

It further says, "The nominations for the Lux Style Awards are decided by an independent and transparent Jury of industry peers and critics. The members of the Jury for 2019 were chosen by an independent Board of Governors. Neither the Lux Style Awards nor Unilever Pakistan has ever intruded in the Jury's independence, and we continue to respect their decisions."

The statement concludes with, "We are aware of the case involving Mr Ali Zafar and Ms Meesha Shafi. The matter is presently sub judice and it would not be appropriate to comment on it."



Earlier, the film jury of the LSAs addressed the issue with a public statement.

"The LSA film jury joins the Lux brand and Unilever Pakistan in condemning all acts of intolerance, discrimination or harassment. However, it is also important to emphasise that the decisions of the film jury were based on an assessment of the merits of the cinematic work. We do not consider any other extraneous issues related to the personal characters or actions of people associated with that work."

The statement further read that the jury, "appreciates the sensitivity of the subject and recognises the intensity of public sentiment. Nevertheless, it is also important to respect that the case is being decided by Pakistan's judicial system."

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.