A female fan has been accused of groping Harry Styles at a breast cancer awareness event in the United States.

The singer was performing on stage at the event when a woman allegedly reached up and touched his crotch. The 23-year-old formerOne Directionstar could then be seen moving the woman’s hand away before continuing on with his set.

Listen: We need to talk about the #MeToo movement. (Post continues…)

Since the incident, many have called out what they believe to be a double standard – arguing that if a male fan groped a female singer in the same way, it would immediately be considered a serious sexual assault and the reaction from the public and authorities would be much more damning.

Styles’ fans have called for more respect for the singer and have reinforced the message that touchinganyonewithout consent is sexual assault.

The hashtag ‘Respect Harry’ is now trending.

touching harry’s crotch without consent is SEXUAL ASSAULT! this is VILE. he CLEARLY felt uncomfortable #respectharry pic.twitter.com/i0gdNyekt7

— em | 9 days ???? (@stylesscrabble) October 22, 2017

Harry is out there using his platform to empower us women and y’all treat him like this. Disgusting. He isn’t an object. #RespectHarry

— Ayette Malak. (@ayettemalak) October 22, 2017

It is NOT okay to touch Harry, or anyone, without their consent, especially in the thigh/crotch area. There is NO justifying this behavior.

— Harry Styles Updates (@HSupdating) October 22, 2017

I’m in tears. Harry has created such a safe space for everyone, and this is how he’s repaid? Sexual assault? I just… ???????? #RespectHarry

— BeWithMeSoHappily (@Happily_Larry_) October 22, 2017

Public Service Announcement: Celebrities are human beings. Harry Styles is a human being. He is not a sexual object #RespectHarry

— Luke Waltham (@lukewaltham) October 22, 2017

The fans believe that in the wake of the slew of sexual assault allegations leveled against Hollywood producer, Harvey Weinstein, it’s important to call out this behaviour for what it is – sexual assault.

Do you believe there is a double standard involved when it comes to women touching men inappropriately? Tell us your opinion in the comments below…