Karnataka HC accepts Ranveer Singh apology, directs Chamundi temple visit in four weeks

Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Apr 25: The Karnataka High Court on Saturday accepted Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh’s undertaking to visit the Chamundi Hill Temple in Mysuru within four weeks as part of amends over his controversial mimicry linked to Kantara: Chapter 1.

Justice M Nagaprasanna said the court would dispose of Singh’s plea after recording his unconditional apology and undertaking to offer prayers at the temple.

The court was hearing Singh’s petition seeking quashing of a criminal case registered against him over remarks made during the 55th International Film Festival of India in Goa.

The case stemmed from Singh’s speech praising actor-director Rishab Shetty, during which he allegedly referred to the Chamundi deity as a “female ghost” and mimicked a depiction associated with the film, drawing objections over hurting religious sentiments.

A case had been registered against him under provisions related to promoting religious enmity, insulting religious beliefs and public mischief under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

During the hearing, senior advocate Sajjan Poovayya, appearing for Singh, told the court that a revised affidavit containing an unconditional apology had been filed and reiterated the actor’s willingness to visit the temple.

The complainant’s counsel urged the court to include a caution in its order to deter public figures from making remarks that may hurt religious sentiments.

Justice Nagaprasanna observed that an admonition would be included and said the court would record Singh’s undertaking to complete the temple visit within four weeks.

The judge indicated he would pass final orders closing the matter after taking the affidavit on record.