New Delhi: In a heated exchange of words on social media, Senior Editor and journalist Rajdeep Sardesai and BJP spokesperson Shazia Ilmi have clashed over an incident that took place during a live debate on India Today. The controversy began when Sardesai shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, accusing Ilmi of misbehaving with a video journalist at her home after her audio was allegedly muted during the broadcast.
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The Incident
The live debate, which aired on India Today, focused on the topic “Politics over Kargil Vijay Diwas.” During the debate, Major General Yash Mor (retired) made a statement about the decline in military recruitment post-COVID-19. As he spoke, Ilmi interrupted, leading Sardesai to ask her to be patient. This exchange escalated, and Ilmi eventually removed her microphone and left the debate.
Rajdeep Sardesai’s Allegations
Sardesai responded to the incident by posting a video on X, in which he accused Ilmi of disrespecting a video journalist. He stated, “Ma’am, Shazia Ilmi, I respect all my guests always. If anything, I am too indulgent: the fader is lowered only to avoid crosstalk and noise on the show. If you have a grouse with me or with an army general on the show, of course, that’s your prerogative. And I respect that too. But for you to chuck the mic, abuse our video journalist, and throw him out of your house is just NOT done. He was only doing his job. No excuse for bad behaviour. The rest I leave to you. Have a good weekend.”
Shazia Ilmi’s Response
Ilmi took to X to defend herself, claiming that the video journalist’s behavior made her uncomfortable, especially given her current physical condition. She explained, “Thanks for providing me with the EVIDENCE which clearly shows how your cameraman behaved after the show. Why on earth would I stay on your show when you humiliate me and say CUT SHAZIA’s Mike off? Only because I asked you whether you think all the Defence Chiefs are lying. Don’t know about you but I have SELF RESPECT.”
Ilmi further stated that she has a foot fracture and struggled to move around, criticizing the cameraman for continuing to film her despite her discomfort. She expressed her frustration, saying, “The pervert cameraman continued to film me despite my obvious physical and emotional discomfort after the show was over. Why? Why would he keep filming in my home, my SAFE place against my WILL? And that too, AFTER the show?”
Background of the Dispute
The argument between Sardesai and Ilmi began when Ilmi accused Sardesai of lowering her fader during the debate, which she viewed as an act of disrespect. She had posted on X criticizing Sardesai for his actions, stating, “Don’t you ever bring down my fader again. Remember, I have been on both sides and know how to handle bullies like you. By the way, it doesn’t behoove political propagandists masquerading as journalists to sermonise.”
