Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], February 22: Bollywood filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan is facing legal action after a criminal complaint was filed against her by Vikas Fhatak, also known as Hindustani Bhau, accusing her of insulting Hindu religious sentiments.
The complaint, filed through Advocate Ali Kaashif Khan Deshmukh, alleges that Farah Khan made derogatory remarks about the Holi festival, referring to its celebration as being done by “chapris,” a term often used in a derogatory manner. According to Fhatak, these comments were offensive and aimed at hurting Hindu sentiments. The complaint was lodged with the Khar Police, requesting the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Khan.
Advocate Ali Kaashif Khan Deshmukh expressed his disapproval, saying, “My client has always raised his voice against individuals and entities spreading hatred or making derogatory remarks against religions. It is shameful that people in Bollywood, who claim to have high stature, have no control over their words.”
The legal document filed by Fhatak invokes sections 196, 299, 302, and 353 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, accusing Khan of deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings, promote enmity, and uttering words with the intent to hurt religious sentiments.
The complaint also argues that Farah Khan misused her rights under Article 19 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees freedom of speech and expression, by making the allegedly offensive remarks.
As of now, the Khar Police have not registered an FIR, and an investigation into the matter is pending.