CBI Cleared Rhea in Sushant Case—but the Court Isn’t Done Yet

Nearly five years after the shocking death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) submitted its closure report, stating that Rajput died by suicide and no foul play was involved. The report officially cleared Rhea Chakraborty, her brother Showik Chakraborty, and others named in earlier allegations. However, the court isn’t ready to shut the lid yet.

In a significant development, a court in Mumbai has issued a notice to Rhea Chakraborty, asking for her response to the closure report. She has until August 12 to submit her reply. The legal system seems unwilling to blindly accept CBI’s version—fueling public debate over whether justice is being buried or finally delivered.

From Accused to Victim? Rhea’s Lawyer Speaks Out

Rhea’s legal representative, Satish Maneshinde, welcomed the CBI report but reminded the public of the media trial Rhea endured. He said the investigation was thorough and fair, yet criticized how his client had been vilified, arrested, and painted as a villain without proof. The emotional and professional toll on Rhea, he argued, was irreversible—despite the CBI now finding no wrongdoing.

According to him, the report not only clears Rhea but indirectly accuses the media of sensationalism that nearly destroyed a young woman’s life.

New Court, Same Case: Justice Delayed or Reopened?

The Bandra session court has transferred the case to the Esplanade court in South Mumbai, which handles CBI matters. A new judge, R. D. Chavan, has been appointed. The next hearing has been scheduled, where the judge may accept or question the closure report. Legal experts suggest this transfer could mean the court wants an unbiased second opinion—raising eyebrows in both legal and public circles.

The court’s insistence on Rhea’s written response before a final call gives a sense that the last word has not been said.

Rhea’s Counter-FIR: Forgotten or Ignored?

Adding more layers, Rhea had filed a counter-FIR against Sushant’s sisters and a Delhi-based doctor for allegedly procuring illegal psychiatric prescriptions. That complaint, like others in this sprawling saga, has been wrapped into the CBI’s final assessment. The fact that none of the counter-allegations were pursued further is now being seen by some as selective investigation—or maybe just overreach in the first place.

Closure, Clarity, or Cover-up?

With emotions still raw, fans and critics alike are divided. Many believe the CBI report puts to rest a politically and emotionally charged case. Others argue that public pressure and media manipulation may have influenced the outcome. And with Rhea now being asked to respond formally, the plot thickens.

The clock is ticking to August 12—and whether the court accepts the CBI’s report or demands more investigation could redefine the narrative around one of Bollywood’s most tragic and controversial losses.