Salman’s rape remark raises storm, father Salim Khan says sorry

The National Commission for Women (NCW) took suo motu cognisance of the “insensitive” remark by the 50-year-old actor and shot off a letter to him, demanding an explanation in seven days, failing which he would be summoned. Women activists also staged protests outside Khan’s Bandra residence in Mumbai.

As political parties, social media users and the NCW pressed for an apology from the actor, his father Salim Khan apologised on his behalf, admitting that his comments were “wrong”.

Khan, who underwent rigorous training for the wrestling film, was heard saying this during his interview with journalists. “While shooting, during those six hours, there was so much of lifting and thrusting on the ground involved. 

That was tough for me because if I was lifting, I would have to lift the same 120-kg guy 10 times for 10 different angles. And likewise, get thrown (by them) many times on the ground. ...When I used to walk out of the ring, after the shoot, I used to feel like a raped woman walking out,” he had said. 

Khan hastened to add, “I don’t think I should have...”, suggesting he should not have made such a comparison.

Reacting on his son’s behalf, Salim said, “Undoubtedly what Salman said is wrong, the simili (sic), example and the context. The intention was not wrong. Nevertheless I apologise on the behalf of my family, his fans and friends. Forgiveness is to pardon the unpardonable or it is no virtue at all. To err is human, to forgive divine. Today on International Yoga Day, lets not run our shops on this mistake.” 

NCW chief Lalitha Kumaramangalam said Salman should give a public apology. Kumaramangalam said if the actor did not give a satisfactory response, he would have to appear before the commission.