Bollywood actress Rhea Chakraborty has emerged from a harrowing ordeal, with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) stating that actor Sushant Singh Rajput died by suicide and that she had no role in his demise. The announcement comes after a grueling media campaign labeled her a "gold digger" and "murderer," ultimately leading to her 27-day imprisonment in 2020.
Rajput's father accused Chakraborty of stealing his son's money and contributing to his suicide, prompting widespread media coverage that turned into a social media frenzy. Chakraborty’s lawyer, Satish Maneshinde, claims that the CBI's thorough investigation confirms her innocence, urging media outlets to reflect on their role in the false narratives that surrounded her.
Feminist lawyer Payal Chawla called the public response towards Chakraborty "deeply troubling" and emphasized the need to be cautious and fair in such cases. Following the CBI’s remarks, Chakraborty was seen visiting a temple with her family, showing hints of relief amidst a long battle against public scrutiny.
Chakraborty has been vocal about the impact of the media trial on her personal and professional life, noting the severe mental strain she faced. Post-ordeal, she has attempted to revive her career through projects like a clothing line and a podcast, while addressing the need to forgive those who maligned her image.
Despite calls from within Bollywood for media accountability and apologies, including from prominent actress Dia Mirza, the question of whether Chakraborty will pursue legal action against her defamers remains uncertain. Critics argue that seeking justice through India's overdue legal system is daunting, suggesting she may never receive the vindication she deserves.
As the media storm settles, the case highlights a troubling trend in how public figures are often vilified without due process, sparking discussions on accountability in journalism and the power of social media narratives.
