Anger over reality show 'racial slur'

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LONDON, England -- Britain's media watchdog has received scores of complaints of alleged racism over treatment of a Bollywood actress on a reality television show, it was revealed Tuesday.

Regulator Ofcom had taken more than 3,500 complaints that star Shilpa Shetty is being targeted by housemates in the celebrity version of the Big Brother show because she is Indian, the UK's Press Association reported.

Broadcaster Channel 4 said it had received a further 1,000 complaints, PA said.

It said contestants Jade Goody, well known in Britain for a previous reality show appearance, singer Jo O'Meara and former beauty queen Danielle Lloyd were behind the taunting.

Newspapers reported that Goody had been dropped by an anti-bullying charity because of her behavior in the show.

The alleged racism has also sparked a heated online debate among Big Brother fans, PA said.

An Ofcom spokeswoman said: "We have had approximately 200 complaints of racism.

"Quite a lot of Web sites have been discussing the issue and urging people to get in contact with us. We will look into each individual complaint."

One contestant was heard referring to Shetty as a "dog," others repeatedly referred to her as "the Indian."

Shetty has put a brave face on her apparent ordeal, PA said, declaring: "This will make me into a stronger person."

Channel 4 said in a statement that it would not broadcast any offensive material and was monitoring contestants to see if disciplinary measures were warranted

"The social interactions and dynamics of the group are one of the key parts of the Big Brother story and viewers have a right to see these portrayed accurately - however this is balanced with our duty not to broadcast material that may cause unjustifiable offence," it said..

"We take this matter very seriously and Big Brother does not tolerate bullying or racist abuse in any form. Big Brother is closely monitoring all the housemates and will take appropriate measures to reprimand such behaviour where necessary."

Traditionally a TV ratings winner in the UK, the latest incarnation of the Big Brother franchise is said to be shedding viewers.

Several stars have already walked out of the show, including 70s pop singer Leo Sayer, film director Ken Russell and singer Donny Tourette.

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