In a disturbing development early Friday morning, shots were fired outside Bollywood actress Disha Patani’s residence in Civil Lines, Bareilly. The police confirmed that at least two aerial shots were discharged around 4:30 am, although fortunately, no injuries were reported. The incident is being linked to alleged comments made by Disha Patani and her sister Khushboo Patani against Hindu spiritual leaders Premanand Maharaj and Aniruddhacharya Maharaj.
Senior Superintendent of Police Anurag Arya informed India Today that local police, supported by a Special Operations Group (SOG) team, responded promptly to the incident. “We have constituted at least five specialized teams to investigate the matter and track down the perpetrators,” Arya stated. “Additionally, sufficient security personnel have been stationed at Disha Patani’s residence to safeguard the family.”
Shortly after the attack, a social media post written in Hindi emerged, claiming responsibility for the attack. The message was attributed to Virendra Charan, linked to the Rohit Godara Group, and Mahendra Saran. The post stated:
“Jai Shri Ram Ram Ram to all brothers. I, Virendra Charan, Mahendra Saran (Delana) claim responsibility for the aerial firing at Khushboo Patani/Disha Patani’s house. She insulted revered saints Premanand Maharaj and Aniruddhacharya Maharaj and attempted to demean Sanatan Dharma. This was merely a trailer. Next time, if such disrespect is shown towards our religion, no one will be spared. This is a message to all artists and industry associates – face the consequences if you insult our religion and saints. Protecting our religion is our utmost duty.”
The police have yet to confirm the authenticity of the social media post, and investigations are ongoing to verify its source and credibility.
The controversy stems from remarks made by Disha Patani and Khushboo Patani criticizing Aniruddhacharya Maharaj’s comments regarding women and live-in relationships, which sparked a significant backlash on social media and among some religious groups.
Authorities are actively investigating the matter, focusing on the individuals named in the social media claim, and have heightened security around Disha Patani’s residence. The law enforcement agencies have appealed to the public to refrain from spreading unverified claims or inciting violence.
This incident highlights the increasing tension between freedom of expression and religious sensitivities in India’s entertainment industry. Further updates are awaited as the police probe continues.