Ali sorry for sexist remarks

Visakhapatnam: Noted comedian and film actor Ali, who was here to attend a public event, apologised to members of Mahila Chetana, AP Civil Liberties and other women’s organisations, for the inappropriate remarks against actresses, anchors and women in general, in his talk shows and events.

Earlier, high drama prevailed at a star hotel on the beach road, when the members of women organsations attempted to barge in. The hotel staff cordoned off the main entrance and even called the police.

The protesting members had heated exchange with the police and hotel staff, who maintained that the actor had checked out of hotel in the afternoon. However, the members were keen and pressed to seek clarification on his comments.

Sensing the gravity of the situation, police arranged a phone conversation between the actor and founder president of Mahila Chetana, K Padma, during which, the actor offered his unconditional apology for the derogatory remarks against women.

Speaking to media persons, Padma said women respected him for his talent. They also hailed him as he came from a lower middle class family. But the language he has been using in his talk shows on the television was not acceptable, she said.

“`We warned him that we will carry out protests even at the public function, which he would be attending, if he fails to offer apology,’’ she said. Padma said that the actor should know where to draw a line and there is difference between humour and vulgarity. “He has a great sense of humour but he should desist from offending women, particularly his actresses and female anchors,” she added.