Ranveer Singh Seeks Dismissal of Criminal Case in Karnataka High Court Over 'Kantara' Imitation
Bollywood star Ranveer Singh, fresh from the success of his film 'Dhurandhar', has found himself embroiled in a significant legal controversy. The actor has now formally approached the Karnataka High Court, seeking to have a criminal case against him set aside. This case stems from allegations that he hurt religious sentiments by imitating a deity from the blockbuster film 'Kantara Chapter 1'.
Legal Battle Over a 'Playful Tribute'
What Singh described as a playful tribute has escalated into a full-fledged legal battle. His legal team has filed a petition with the Karnataka High Court, strongly maintaining that there was absolutely no intent to insult or offend anyone. According to their submissions, the actor was merely expressing his genuine admiration for Rishab Shetty's powerful performance and the film's distinctive narrative style.
The petition argues that a gesture of appreciation has been wrongly and unfairly framed as criminal wrongdoing. In essence, Singh's lawyers contend that "Ranveer's sincere praise has been misread as a criminal act," highlighting a fundamental disconnect between artistic expression and legal interpretation.
Defense Highlights 'Undue Stress' and Seeks Urgent Hearing
The defense further elaborated on the personal toll this case has taken on the actor. They pointed out that Singh has already received two formal police notices in connection with the matter. His legal representatives claim these notices have placed him under "undue stress" and significant pressure, both personally and professionally.
In an effort to resolve the situation swiftly, Singh's lawyers sought an urgent, same-day hearing from the court. They argued that a prompt resolution was necessary to alleviate the mounting pressure on the actor. However, this request for immediate relief was met with a firm refusal from the bench.
Court Denies Special Treatment, Emphasizes Equal Process
Presiding over the matter in Bengaluru, Justice M Nagaprasanna delivered a clear and principled stance. The justice underscored that celebrity status does not, and should not, translate into special treatment within the judicial system. This position was emphasized through a series of pointed rhetorical questions posed to the court.
Justice Nagaprasanna asked: Should a case receive priority simply because the accused is a Bollywood star? Furthermore, what if the individual involved were a Hollywood celebrity instead? Would the courts then race against time to accommodate them? These questions reinforced the court's commitment to procedural fairness and equality before the law.
Awaiting Scheduled Proceedings
Despite repeated and earnest requests from Singh's legal team for immediate intervention, the Karnataka High Court has refused to fast-track the hearing. Consequently, Ranveer Singh must now await the scheduled court proceedings, which are set to continue tomorrow. This decision aligns the case with the court's standard and usual legal process, ensuring no special accommodations are made based on fame or public profile.
The outcome of this legal confrontation will be closely watched, as it touches upon issues of artistic freedom, religious sensitivity, and the equitable application of legal procedures to individuals from all walks of life, including high-profile celebrities from the entertainment industry.
