Shilpa Shetty is an Indian actress, producer, author, and model. And currently, she’s been in court over a public kissing incident involving Richard Gere.
According to several India-based reports, a complaint was filed against her for a moment that took place in 2007. As the video from the moment shows, Gere and Shetty once shared a stage together during an AIDS awareness campaign event in Delhi.
This Actress Is Being Charged With Crimes Because Actor Richard Gere Kissed Her Cheek
While on stage, Gere and Shetty were posing for a picture when Gere walked in front of Shetty and seemingly surprised her by giving her a kiss on each cheek.
The strange interaction continued when Gere continued showing Shetty public affection by hugging her and dipping her before kissing her one more time. The Times of India reports that the scene between Gere and Shetty “sent shockwaves through traditional Indian households.”
You can watch the video for yourself, below:
Back in January 2022, Metropolitan Magistrate Ketaki Chavan discharged Shilpa Shetty from the case, saying, “I am satisfied that the charge against the present accused i.e. Shilpa Shetty is groundless.” However, the Alwar police later challenged the judgment forcing Shetty to continue her legal battle, New 18 reports.
Now, Shetty is “seeking dismissal of the appeal filed against her,” the Times of India reports. The complaint reportedly focuses on Shetty not protesting Gere’s behavior in that moment.
“Submitting that the only allegation against her is that she did not protest when she was kissed by the ‘co-accused,’ Hollywood actor Richard Gere, and it did not make her a conspirator or perpetrator of any crime.”
According to the Times of India, advocate, Prashant Patil shared a statement offering support to Shetty.
“That the respondent [Shilpa Shetty Kundra] is a victim of malicious proceedings and harassment at the hands of the original complainant,” the statement reads according to the times. “The respondent is an established artist and has always acted responsibly in her public life and private life.”
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Despite this moment occurring in 2007, a total of 15 years ago, the implications are still following Shetty today. Based on our research, it’s unclear when or if this issue will ever be resolved through the court system.