Adeel Hashmi reveals he was Sexually Assaulted by Bullies

During an appearance on Masarrat Misbah’s show, Adeel Hashmi revealed he was sexually assaulted when he was a boy.

He disclosed that when he was in the seventh grade, he was sexually assaulted. This was at the hands of a group of older students who had been bullying him.

Due to being younger and smaller, Adeel found himself subjected to their abuse. Sadly, he felt unable to confide in any adult figures at the time.

He said: “In the 1980s, when I was in either 7th or 8th grade my class in the public school had a number of students who had been failing for a few years.

“As a result, they were much older than me because they had been in the same grade for multiple years, while I had just been promoted from 6th grade.”

Opening up about the harrowing incident, he said:

“I can tell you one incident from that time, I’ll likely not tell you all of it and I might even tear up halfway through it.

“I was sexually assaulted in seventh grade… They would sexually assault me at that time when this wasn’t a [commonly known] concept.

“And it’s an all-boys school. No teacher, no elder, my brother, my parents could do anything.”

He turned to his older brother and sought advice on whether he should inform their father about the bullies.

“I used to stutter, and I was aware that if I told my teachers, the bullying would likely worsen.

“There was one time when I mentioned to my brother that kids were teasing me and asked if I should tell our father.

“He responded by advising me not to, suggesting that I find a way to handle the situation myself.”

Adeel Hashmi admitted that he never disclosed the incident to his father due to concerns over how his father would react.

He was unable to confide in his mother as well.

Years later, Adeel had a conversation with his own child, emphasising the importance of informing him if anyone ever bullied him.

Fortunately, his son was already in a safer environment, which brought him a sense of gratitude.

Adeel told Masarrat:

“The smile you see on my face right now is a result of enduring numerous challenges in life.”

He recognised that the incidents have strengthened his character but they have also left lasting emotional scars.

Adeel also highlighted the significance of creating a safe and supportive environment that encourages survivors to come forward and share their experiences.

One fan commented: “He is so brave and strong. I respect him even more now.”

Another wrote: “It is a very serious matter, and it still happens to a lot of children even today. There should be more awareness on this topic.”

One said: “I am so afraid of sending my children to school. Just because of such horrifying realities.”

Another remarked: “Adeel you are such a humble and kind person. You have been so patient and strong.”