LAHORE, APR 20 (DNA) – Popular singer Ali Zafar has responded to sexual harassment allegations leveled against him by fellow singer Meesha Shafi.

In a post shared on micro-blogging site Twitter, Meesha Shafi had claimed that she has been subjected to sexual harassment “of a physical nature” at Ali Zafar’s hands.

The singer-cum-actress used the hashtag #MeToo to link it with an international movement against sexual harassment and assault.

In his response, Ali Zafar categorically denied all the allegations leveled against him by Meesha Shafi and announced to take the matter to courts of law to “address this professionally and seriously rather than to lodge any allegations”.

He maintained that he is deeply aware and in support of the global #MeToo movement and what it stands for but “contesting personal vendettas on social media” is tantamount to disrespecting the movement, his family, the showbiz industry and his fans.

Meesha Shafi had claimed that these incidents (of sexual harassment) did not happen when she was young or just entering the industry. “This happened to me despite the fact that I am an empowered, accomplished woman who is known for speaking her mind! This happened to me as a mother of two children,” wrote the singer.

She lamented that she felt “betrayed” by Ali’s behaviour as he is someone she has known for a long time and has shared the stage with.