In a major development, an Odisha court has dismissed the domestic violence case filed by actress Varsha Priyadarshini against her estranged husband, former Member of Parliament and popular Ollywood actor Anubhav Mohanty. The court found no merit in her allegations and rejected all her claims, including a ₹15 crore compensation demand.
The case, which had made national headlines when it was filed, caused considerable damage to Anubhav Mohanty’s reputation. Sensational media coverage at the time painted a grim picture of the former MP, with large sections of the public quick to pass judgment even before the legal proceedings had concluded.
Now, with the court’s dismissal of the allegations, questions are being raised about the responsibility of media organizations in reporting on cases involving serious accusations, especially when the accused’s image and career are at stake.
Deepika Narayan Bhardwaj, a well-known men’s rights activist and advocate for legal reforms against the misuse of gender-biased laws, weighed in strongly on the judgment. “No one is spared from the wrath of misuse of gender-biased laws in India, not even a sitting Member of Parliament,” she said.
“Mr. Mohanty’s image was thoroughly maligned by the media when the case was filed. Now that the court has found no evidence of domestic violence, will the media apologize to him for the irreparable damage caused? I wish the court had also imposed a fine on the complainant for filing a bogus case. There must be a strong deterrent against misuse of the law,” Bhardwaj added.
The controversy between Anubhav Mohanty and Varsha Priyadarshini has been ongoing for several years. In 2020, the public first learned of serious marital disputes between the two actors. While Anubhav Mohanty filed for divorce citing a breakdown of the marriage, Varsha Priyadarshini responded by filing domestic violence charges against him under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
During the trial, Mohanty consistently denied the allegations, maintaining that no domestic violence had taken place. His legal team presented evidence and arguments that ultimately led the court to conclude that Varsha Priyadarshini’s claims could not be substantiated. The court, while dismissing the case, also rejected her claim of ₹15 crore as compensation, stating that there was no basis for such a demand.
The judgment has reignited debate about the potential misuse of gender-protective laws in India. Activists argue that while these laws are essential for protecting genuine victims, there should also be provisions to penalize individuals who file false cases.
Deepika Narayan Bhardwaj, among others, has been vocal about the devastating personal, social, and professional consequences men face when false allegations are made. She stressed that the absence of punitive measures against false complaints emboldens misuse, ultimately undermining the credibility of genuine victims.
Anubhav Mohanty, who is not just a celebrated actor but also a political figure, had to endure severe public backlash during the pendency of the case. His professional and personal life came under intense media scrutiny. Now, with the legal battle favoring him, supporters and activists alike believe that he deserves a public apology from those who prematurely judged him based on unverified claims.
The case is a reminder that while the legal system in India strives to protect victims of abuse, it must also safeguard against the misuse of protective legislation. There is a growing call for balanced reforms that protect the innocent while ensuring that genuine victims continue to receive the protection they deserve.
As for Anubhav Mohanty, the court’s decision brings him legal vindication, but whether the media or the public will extend him the same acknowledgment remains to be seen.
