AR Rahman issues legal notice against defamatory posts

AR Rahman is preparing to take strict legal action against anyone who has shared or will continue to share defamatory posts about his divorce or family.

Yesterday, the music composer posted a letter warning of legal action against those speculating about the reasons behind his separation from Saira Banu. The 57-year-old shared a three-page notice addressing individuals making 'objectionable' claims to defame him and his family following the announcement of his separation on November 19 (Tuesday).

The Oscar-winning music composer has been in the spotlight since the news of his divorce from his wife, Saira Banu, was revealed. Interestingly, on the same day, Mohini Dey, a bassist in Rahman's troupe, also announced her divorce. This sparked speculation about a possible connection between the two breakups, with many discussing the potential reasons behind Rahman's separation from his wife.

A section of the notice states, "It has come to our attention that certain social media platforms and several YouTubers have begun publishing defamatory and slanderous articles, fabricating stories about their private lives." 

"There have also been interviews by some individuals offering their views on the failure of their marriage. It is unnecessary to repeat each of the statements circulated on social media, which are aimed at spreading misinformation and false awareness."

The letter issues a warning to remove all objectionable content within the next 24 hours, or else legal action will be pursued.

The letter stated warnings as follows, "My client warns those spreading hate and sharing abusive content to remove the objectionable material within one hour, and no later than 24 hours. If not, legal action will be taken, including the filing of a criminal defamation case under Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023." 

"In such cases, the offenders could face up to two years of imprisonment, with or without a fine, as determined by the court under Section 356(2) of the Act."

Previously, Rahman's lawyer, Vandana Shah, rejected the rumours linking Rahman and Banu's separation to Mohini Dey's divorce.

In an interview with Republic TV, she stated, "There is absolutely no connection. Saira and Mr Rahman made their decision independently."