Mumbai: In an interesting turn of events, the accused who slapped Gauhar Khan at India’s Raw Star finale, now claims it was a publicity stunt. The man in question, Akil Mallik, was a member of the audience. On the grand finale, he initially accused Gauhar of wearing short clothes despite being a Muslim, made lewd comments and then physically assaulted her. Talking to sources, Akil claims that he was paid in order to slap the actress in public.

Akil who is a junior artist met Gauhar on November 28, two days before the incident took place. Gauhar promised that he would get a lucrative role in Salman Khan’s ‘Dabangg 3’ if he slaps the actress on stage.

Ask him about why he changed his statement, he maintains that the whole incident was pre-planned. It was decided what statement should be given for records. Apparently, Gauhar was not true to her word which made him voice the truth.

Gauhar Khan’s slapgate has created a lot of buzz with several celebrities standing up in support of her. The facts that are coming to fore are contorted enough to doubt on it’s authenticity.