'Lakshmpriya demanded Rs 60,000, initially informed it was not feasible'; Sandeep Vachaspati responds

ALAPPUZHA: BJP leader Sandeep Vachaspathi has responded to film star Lakshmi Priya who came forward with allegations of being underpaid for her participation in an event. In a live video shared on social media, Sandeep Vachaspathi stated that the event organizers had initially informed Lakshmi Priya that they couldn't offer a substantial remuneration and despite that she agreed to participate.

Sandeep mentioned that when Lakshmi Priya requested Rs 60,000 the organizers explained they couldn't afford that amount. He also revealed that he learned about the organizers' interaction with Lakshmi only on the day of the event.

After the event, Lakshmi Priya contacted Sandeep and expressed dissatisfaction with the payment. Sandeep mentioned in the video that he would discuss the matter with the organizers and get back to Lakshmi.

‘Lakshmi informed me that she was planning to return the money she had received. I advised her not to do so immediately. Later, I found out that she had already returned the money. I then told her that I would contact the organizers to see if they could provide more money if needed. However, I got busy with the Puthupally election, Sandeep explained.

‘When I eventually contacted the organizers, I discovered that Lakshmi had initially requested Rs 60,000 to participate in the event and when they couldn't meet that amount, she had agreed to the lower payment as it was the event Sandeep ji had mentioned. I had not been informed about this specific amount. The organizers confirmed that when she was informed about the amount, they had clearly stated they couldn't provide such a sum,’ Sandeep clarified.

‘Lakshmi Priya called me recently and during our conversation, I told her, 'This is quite shameful, Lakshmi.' She was screaming through the phone. Contrary to the allegations, I always answer calls from anyone who reaches out,’ Sandeep emphasized in the video.