Ranveer Singh's Apology Controversy: Will He Revise His Statement to Satisfy the Complainant?
Ranveer Singh's Court Appearance Over Apology
Bengaluru: Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh appeared before the Karnataka High Court on Friday, expressing his willingness to collaborate with the complainant to amend the wording of his apology affidavit concerning his mimicry of a character from the film Kantara: Chapter 1.
This development followed the complainant's assertion that Singh's affidavit failed to convey genuine remorse.
The court was reviewing Singh's petition aimed at dismissing an FIR filed against him regarding the incident that occurred during the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa last year.
At the festival, Singh reportedly imitated a character portrayed by Rishab Shetty and referred to a deity as a 'female ghost,' which sparked significant objections.
Senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, representing Singh, informed Justice M. Nagaprasanna that an apology affidavit had already been submitted, and Singh had expressed his intention to visit the relevant temple to offer prayers.
However, the complainant's legal representative contended that the affidavit lacked clarity and did not sufficiently express remorse, emphasizing that the intentions outlined were not adequately communicated and requested a clearer apology.
Poovayya highlighted sections of the affidavit where Singh indicated he was unaware that his actions would offend worshippers and expressed regret over the incident. He also noted that Singh had issued an unconditional public apology upon realizing the repercussions of his comments.
The complainant's counsel maintained that a more detailed affidavit was necessary. In response, Poovayya assured the court that he would collaborate with the complainant to create a revised version that would meet their expectations.
After considering both arguments, the court postponed the case until April 23 and instructed that a revised affidavit be submitted to the complainant's satisfaction.
It is important to note that Ranveer Singh faced backlash after referring to a deity as a 'female ghost' while performing a scene of divine possession at the IFFI in Goa. This remark led to outrage, with many social media users accusing the actor of offending religious sentiments.
In light of the criticism, Singh took to Instagram to apologize for imitating Rishab Shetty's performance in Kantara: Chapter 1, expressing regret for his actions.
Following the incident, an FIR was lodged based on a complaint from an advocate, citing Sections 196, 299, and 302, which pertain to inciting enmity, outraging religious feelings, and intentionally hurting religious sentiments.
Singh has since approached the court to have the FIR dismissed. The High Court previously stayed any punitive measures against him, reminding him that, as a public figure, he should be cautious with his words and actions to avoid offending any community's religious sentiments.