I’m not going to spend a long time writing about this issue, as it’s being widely reported in both the British and Indian media, but I’m getting increasingly frustrated at how this issue is escalating, and at how some people will interpret it.

Here’s my thoughts on the whole issue:

• The “Big Brother” show is carefully set up by its makers to cause friction and unrest. It’s what (supposedly) makes ‘entertaining TV’. I’m sure the executives knew full well that putting this collection of ‘celebrities’ (of which Shilpa is surely the biggest, even if not well-known UK) would cause problems.
• I saw one of the evictees, Carol, describe Shilpa as incredibly strong – perhaps even the strongest person in the house. She could leave at any time if she wanted to, and whilst I don’t deny that things are unpleasant in there, she is obviously coping to a certain extent.
• The views of a few fading celebrities do not reflect the majority of British thinking – BB has received over 20,000 complaints to date from members of the public.
• I think there are at least hints of racism in what some of the other housemates are saying to and about Shilpa. At very least it’s bullying, and it’s nasty, but bear in mind that the people doing it are making themselves look stupid and ignorant.
• These issues are important, but at the same time everyone should step back and think. Despite all the protestations of Channel 4 and the makers of Big Brother, they must be absolutely loving this publicity. Let’s not give it to them. Britain and India have much more important things to discuss (I’m not saying that racism is unimportant). The inane rantings of Jade, Danielle, and some washed up girl from a ’90s pop group, really shouldn’t have that much influence.
• Channel 4 obviously can’t be bothered to get involved in the debate as they don’t even report the issues on their web page (and no I’m not going to link to it)

If you really want to make a statement (and unfortunately it would take a large number of peope to do it) then stop watching the programme (and all the other trash that Endemol put out – I’m sure we’ve had enough of “Deal or No Deal” by now anyway?). Skip Channel 4, and make it clear to their sponsors (Carphone Warehouse, I believe) that they should pull their support or you won’t give them your custom (not that I ever would anyway)

Not going to happen, is it?