Former Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) official Sameer Wankhede, who initiated a legal action against Shah Rukh Khan’s production company Red Chillies Entertainment for his representation in the Netflix series ‘The B****ds of Bollywood’, has disclosed that his family received threatening messages from various countries, including Pakistan and the UAE. Despite this, he affirmed his determination to stand firm and bring the truth to light.
When asked about the portrayal of Aryan Khan in the series, directed by him, in relation to the drug case, Wankhede emphasized that numerous individuals were accused in the case due to his diligent work. He expressed his readiness to face any challenges that come his way, stating, “I am prepared to confront whatever unfolds in this battle. I am unafraid of obstacles and have consistently fought against them.”
Wankhede further alleged that the film ridiculed Satyameva Jayate and disrespected police officers. He condemned the satire on law enforcement in the film as unacceptable, prompting his decision to pursue legal measures.
The former NCB officer disclosed that his family had been subjected to threats and offensive messages from countries such as the UAE, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. He also mentioned receiving death threats but reiterated his unwavering resolve.
Asserting that his family had no involvement in the case, Wankhede reiterated his dedication to serving the nation for nearly two decades, emphasizing, “The truth may be twisted, but it cannot be vanquished.”
Wankhede’s defamation suit targets Red Chillies Entertainment and Netflix, the platform where ‘The B****ds of Bollywood’ was released. The Delhi High Court recently summoned both entities in connection with the case, scheduling a further hearing for October 30.
The court refrained from issuing any interim injunction at this stage but instructed the defendants to submit their responses to Wankhede’s request for removing the allegedly defamatory content from various websites.
Wankhede’s plea demands Rs 2 crore in damages, asserting that the series tarnishes his reputation in a biased manner and proposes that the damages be donated to Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital. The petition accuses the series of portraying anti-drug enforcement agencies negatively, potentially undermining public trust in law enforcement institutions.
Additionally, Wankhede’s plea objects to a specific scene in the series where a character is depicted making an offensive gesture after reciting the national slogan Satyameva Jayate, citing a violation of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971.
Wankhede gained national attention following the arrest of Aryan Khan in Mumbai during a drug raid led by the NCB in October 2021. Aryan Khan, along with others, faced charges related to drug consumption and conspiracy.
According to the arrest memo, Aryan Khan was arrested for involvement in the consumption, sale, and purchase of contraband substances.