A model and actress -- who rediff.com will not identify -- has accused film director Madhur Bhandarkar of rape and intimidation.

Speaking to the media, the starlet said, "Someone had to take a stand."

Excerpts from a media briefing:

Why did you take so long (nearly three years) to go to the police and make this allegation?

I can't talk about it. Obviously, there is a reason behind it, which you will know later.

Madhur Bhandarkar says it is a publicity stunt.

How ridiculous! It takes a lot of courage and guts for someone to come out in the open and expose herself to the media and people. Madhur [Bhandarkar] has been in touch with me till recently. All my mobile phone records are proof enough for people to know what the relationship was all about.

Did you work in any of his films?

I have not worked with him in any film. All I can say is I have attended the mahurat of Chandni Bar, only because he had invited me.

Did he promise you any role?

Yes. I know him for the last five years. He kept promising me that he would cast me as the heroine of his next film, which never happened. He only sexually exploited me.

Why did you decide to speak up?

Someone had to do it. Other newcomers should be aware of such misdoings in the film industry. I have a responsibility towards society. Someone had to stand up and stop such people from exploiting innocent girls.