"I have been compelled by the media to take this step."
Raj Kundra has responded to claims that he has links to Bangladeshi adult film star Riya Barde.
Riya was arrested for illegally staying in India and securing an Indian passport using forged documents.
A media report claimed that she worked for one of his production companies.
Raj refuted claims of any links to Riya, saying:
“These reports claim that an individual, allegedly an illegal immigrant, worked for me or was associated with one of my supposed production companies.
“Let me be very clear – I have never met this person, nor have I ever owned or been involved with any production company that this individual has worked for.”
He stated that he was “deeply disturbed” by the “false” claims.
Raj Kundra continued: “These baseless claims are not only damaging to my reputation but are also an attempt to exploit my name for sensationalism and media traction.
“I have always conducted my business with the utmost integrity, and I will not tolerate such false accusations.”
Raj revealed that he is taking legal action against media outlets for spreading such news.
“I have been compelled by the media to take this step.
“On multiple occasions, they have tarnished my image by publishing false and defamatory statements.
“Despite sending takedown notices and giving them the opportunity to retract, no action was taken. My matter is subjudice, I have been fighting in court for my discharge.
“It’s been three years in which three judges have changed. Whilst it’s frustrating I have full faith in the law.
“I don’t deserve to be pronounced guilty in a trial by the media.”
The court has granted permission to the Juhu Police to investigate the case and file an FIR against those responsible.
The complaint aims to address what Raj describes as deliberate attempts to tarnish his reputation.
Riya Barde, who is known in the adult film industry as Aarohi Barde and Banna Sheikh, was arrested in Mumbai following a tip-off.
A friend of Riya alerted the police after discovering she was a Bangladeshi national.
A case of registered against her various sections of the BNSS for cheating, forgery, and under the Foreigners Act.
Riya’s parents are currently living in Qatar. Meanwhile, the police are searching for her brother and sister.
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