Superstar not above law: Karnataka HC criticises Ranveer Singh for comments on Kantara deity but grants interim relief

The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday criticised Bollywood actor Ranveer for the remarks he made in connection with the film Kantara during a speech at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa [Ranveer Singh v. State of Karnataka].

Justice M Nagaprasanna observed that Singh's reference to the film's depiction of Chamundi Devi and his mimicry of the deity had hurt a community's sentiments.

"You may be Ranveer Singh or anybody. You can't be loose-tongued at all! We will see if there is mens rea (guilty intent). But you being an actor, you have influence on so many people. You have to be responsible. If you are speaking about a deity (you have to do your research), you can't call it a ghost. You have no right to hurt anybody's religious sentiments. You have apologised, but will your apology take back all the words? When actors go on stages and try to do all this, you should exercise restraint. Without having knowledge, you can't say anything. You can't take it so lightly. Super star is not upar (above) law, sir." Justice Nagaprasanna said.

The Court, however, agreed to grant Singh interim relief on his plea to quash the criminal case filed against him in the matter for now, provided that the actor cooperates with the investigation.

The Court also ordered the State not to take any coercive action against Singh until March 3, when it will hear the matter next.

The interim order was passed after Justice Nagaprasanna took note of submissions that Singh has already apologised for his comments and was willing to do everything to "undo his recklessness."

The case concerns a speech made by Singh in which he praised actor Rishab Shetty and referred to his performance in Kantara: Chapter 1. While appreciating Shetty’s acting, Singh referred to a deity as a “female ghost” and mimicked Shetty’s performance, following which controversy erupted on social media.

Subsequently, Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate at Bengaluru passed an order investigation under Section 175(3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 (magistrate investigation).

Pursuant to the order, the High Grounds Police Station registered an FIR naming Singh for offences under Sections 196 (religious enmity), 299 (religious insult) and 302 (public mischief) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Singh moved the Court contending that his remarks were taken out of context and that there was no intention to hurt any religion or community.

He added that he also issued an unconditional apology on social media, clarifying that his comments were meant only to appreciate Shetty’s performance and that he respects all cultures and traditions.

It was further contended that the essential ingredients of the alleged offences were not made out in this case, since there was no malicious intent on Singh's part or incitement to violence or attempt to create disharmony between communities

Representing Singh, Senior Advocate Sajan Poovayya today admitted that his client had made insensitive remarks, but questioned whether he must continue to face the rigours of a criminal case when there was no intention to hurt anyone's sentiments.

"I admit, a completely insensitive statement made by me at a formal occasion led to complaint being filed. I am willing to do everything that could undo my recklessness," the Senior Counsel said.

However, Justice Nagaprasanna opined that being an actor with influence, Singh is expected to be more restrained. Singh should not have commented on a deity before doing his research, the Court pointed out. The judge further asked if a mere apology could undo the effect of Singh's comments.

He proceeded to direct the State to file its objections in the matter, before adjourning the case till next week and granting Singh interim relief till then.

"You (State) file your objections, I will hear it on Monday. But don't take coercive steps. He is admitting he was reckless. You (Ranveer Singh) are reckless. And you have no right to do what you have done. No person in the garb of talent, comedy show has right to hurt religious sentiments or dignity of others," the judge said.

Senior Advocate Sajan Poovayya with advocates Ameet Naik, Madhu Gadodia, Manu Kulkarni and Abhilash from Poovayya & Co represented Singh.

[Live Coverage]