Bengaluru High Court Quashes FIR After Actor's Unconditional Apology and Temple Visit Undertaking
The Karnataka High Court has formally disposed of the case against actor Ranveer Singh concerning his controversial mimicry of a deity's depiction from the film 'Kantara: Chapter 1'. The court accepted Singh's unconditional apology, tendered via a revised affidavit, and his undertaking to visit the Chamundeshwari Temple atop Chamundi Hill in Mysuru within four weeks to seek forgiveness. This move effectively quashes the First Information Report (FIR) registered against the actor.
The proceedings, which stemmed from remarks made at the 55th International Film Festival of India in Goa, involved allegations of hurting religious sentiments, promoting religious enmity, and public mischief under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The court had previously noted that celebrity status does not grant license to disrespect religious sentiments on public platforms.
Path to Resolution
Singh's legal team, represented by senior counsel Sajjan Poovayya, informed the court of the actor's revised affidavit offering a complete and unreserved apology. The actor also expressed willingness to visit Chamundi Hill and offer prayers before the deity. Legal representatives highlighted that, given the apology, further punitive action was deemed unnecessary.
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The court indicated that a formal order would be issued, likely stipulating a timeframe for Singh to complete his visit to the temple. While security arrangements for the actor's visit were discussed, concerns about a fixed schedule were raised by his legal team, emphasizing the need for adequate planning. The court ultimately agreed with the position presented by Singh's counsel.
The case's origin traces back to early 2025, when Singh's act of mimicking a sacred 'daiva' tradition from the film reportedly caused considerable offense. Following a complaint, an FIR was registered, and Singh subsequently approached the High Court seeking to have the proceedings nullified. His legal team admitted to the actor having made "reckless statements" and approaching the court to quash the FIR, acknowledging the mistake.
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