Bombay HC Dismisses Tanushree Dutta's Plea Against Mumbai Police About Nana Patekar Case

Recently, the Bombay High Court has dismissed Bollywood actress Tanushree Dutta’s plea against the Mumbai Police’s closure report in the #MeToo case involving veteran actor Nana Patekar. The court’s decision has brought relief to Patekar, who has consistently denied the allegations, while Dutta’s legal battle continues to spark conversations about accountability and justice in the #MeToo movement.

Tanushree Dutta, who accused Nana Patekar in 2018 for sexually harassing her on the sets of the 2008 film Horn Ok Pleassss, had challenged the Mumbai Police’s decision to close the case due to a lack of evidence. Dutta alleged that Patekar misbehaved with her during a dance sequence, a claim that Patekar has strongly denied.

In her plea, Dutta argued that the police investigation was biased and incomplete, claiming that key witnesses were not examined and crucial evidence was overlooked. However, the Bombay High Court, after reviewing the case, found no merit in her petition and upheld the Mumbai Police’s closure report.

The court’s decision has sparked debates about the challenges faced by survivors of sexual harassment in India’s legal system. While many have expressed disappointment, others have emphasized the importance of due process and the need for concrete evidence in such cases.

Speaking about the verdict, Tanushree Dutta said, “This is not just my fight; it’s a fight for every woman who has faced harassment and intimidation. The system often fails survivors, but I will continue to speak my truth and seek justice.”

On the other hand, Nana Patekar’s legal team welcomed the court’s decision, stating, “The verdict reaffirms our faith in the judiciary. Mr. Patekar has always maintained his innocence, and this decision vindicates his stand.”

The #MeToo movement in India gained momentum in 2018 when Dutta’s allegations against Patekar opened the gates for countless women to share their stories of harassment and abuse. While the movement brought a shift in conversations around workplace misconduct, it also highlighted the complexities of navigating legal systems that often lack the infrastructure to handle such cases sensitively.

Dutta’s case, in particular, has been a subject for discussions about the challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry. Despite the court’s decision, her courage in speaking out has inspired many to break their silence and demand accountability.

The question still stands with this most recent development: How can the legal system change to effectively assist sexual harassment survivors?  As of right now, Tanushree Dutta's struggle remains an example of the courage of people who dare to oppose influential people and systemic injustices.