Title: Put in Kasab’s cell, treated like a bomber: Sooraj Pancholi
In a shocking revelation, actor Sooraj Pancholi, who was acquitted in the Jiah Khan suicide case two years ago, has shared his harrowing experience of being imprisoned. Pancholi, who recently made an acting comeback with the film Kesari Veer, opened up about his time behind bars, revealing that he was kept in the same prison cell that terrorist Ajmal Kasab was in.
The 29-year-old actor, who was arrested in 2013 in connection with Jiah Khan’s death, told a leading daily that he was treated like a terrorist during his incarceration. “I was put in an ‘anda cell’…they treated me like I’d done a bomb blast,” he said.
For those who may not know, an ‘anda cell’ is a special type of prison cell used to house high-risk prisoners. It is designed to prevent any kind of escape or harm to others. Pancholi’s revelation is shocking, to say the least, as it suggests that the authorities treated him with extreme caution, considering him a threat to national security.
Kasab, who was a Pakistani terrorist, was arrested in 2008 after he and his accomplices carried out the Mumbai terror attacks, killing over 160 people. He was later hanged in 2012. Pancholi’s claim that he was kept in the same prison cell as Kasab raises questions about the fairness of the treatment he received during his imprisonment.
Pancholi’s experience in prison was not only traumatic but also isolating. “I was in a cell that was meant for high-risk prisoners. I was treated like a terrorist. I was not allowed to meet anyone, not even my family. I was in isolation for 11 months,” he recalled.
The actor’s ordeal began in 2013 when he was arrested in connection with Jiah Khan’s death. Khan, a young actress, was found hanging in her apartment in June 2013. Pancholi was accused of being involved in her death, and he was arrested and charged with abetment to suicide.
In 2017, however, Pancholi was acquitted of all charges due to lack of evidence. The case had sparked a lot of controversy, with many questioning the fairness of the investigation and the evidence presented against Pancholi.
Despite being acquitted, Pancholi’s experience in prison was traumatic, and it has left a lasting impact on him. “The experience was very traumatic. It changed me as a person. I was a kid when I went in, and I came out as a man,” he said.
Pancholi’s story is a reminder of the need for reforms in India’s criminal justice system. His treatment in prison was apparently based on assumptions and not facts. It is unacceptable that an actor, who was later acquitted of all charges, was treated like a terrorist and kept in isolation for months.
Pancholi’s acting comeback with Kesari Veer is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite the challenges he faced, he has emerged stronger and more determined to succeed in his career.
In conclusion, Sooraj Pancholi’s story is a cautionary tale about the need for fairness and justice in our criminal justice system. His experience in prison was traumatic, and it is a reminder of the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or circumstances.
