Models Nimra Jacob and Hasnain Lehri sparked controversy at Textile EXPO 2023 after engaging in a physical altercation while walking the runway for sportswear brand, Spartan.
Videos from the event captured a heated argument between Hasnain Lehri and Nimra Jacob, in the presence of other models.
Pakistani model, Nimra Jacob accused Hasnain Lehri of physically assaulting her. Taking to Instagram, she wrote, ‘‘You can’t mistreat me. You can’t threaten me. You can’t bully me. And you surely will not put your hands on me without consequences.’’
In a series of Instagram stories, she expressed her thoughts about harassment in the fashion industry, ‘‘We, in the fashion industry, have seen too much abuse, disrespect, and complete, utter negligence for our safety to tolerate it anymore. I have no space in my heart for forgiveness when it comes to abuse, harassment, bullying, assault, etc.’’
Talking about the incident, she added, ‘‘This all happened at work, where I made sure to bring it to the attention of the management that I was being threatened by the perpetrator before he even became violent. The management should have taken action the first time I mentioned concern for my safety.’’
Nimra mentioned that she is fortunate to have eyewitnesses who observed the disturbing actions of Hasnain Lehri. She emphasized that she would not tolerate any kind of abuse or threat toward herself or her colleagues.
The allegations made by Nimra Jacob raised concerns regarding women’s safety in the workplace and harassment in the fashion Industry.
Many celebrities, models, and fashion designers including Prominent figures like Zara Peerzada, Kamiar Rokni, Frieha Altaf, Anoushey Ashraf, and Eman Suleman showed support for Nimra Jacob.
Model Eman Suleman addressed the situation on Instagram, stating, “Let’s not pretend this hasn’t happened before. We’ve heard stories, and many of you have witnessed the violent tendencies this man has displayed before. He should’ve been held accountable then, but this industry loves protecting toxic men.”
On the other hand, model Hasnain Lehri denied all accusations of physical altercation and abuse.
