Disha Salian Case: CBI FIR ‘Bid To Defame Thackeray Family’, Alleges Sanjay Raut

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has alleged that the FIR registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the Disha Salian death case is an attempt to “tarnish the image” of the Thackeray family.

Speaking to reporters, Raut described the latest development as a “political conspiracy” and alleged that the CBI investigation was being used to target Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray.

“The way the matter was taken to court, which gave an order to hand over the case to the CBI, is a conspiracy. It has specifically said to conduct a CBI probe, but do not name anyone. Yet names are being taken in the media,” Raut said.

‘CBI Probe Being Weaponised’

Raut’s remarks came after the CBI registered an FIR in connection with Salian’s death. Salian, who had briefly worked as the manager of late actor Sushant Singh Rajput, died in Mumbai in June 2020.

The FIR does not name any accused, in compliance with directions issued by the Bombay High Court on a petition filed by Salian’s father.

According to the allegations being investigated, the CBI will examine claims of gang rape, murder and an alleged cover-up surrounding Salian’s death.

Raut alleged that the investigation was being “weaponised” against Aaditya Thackeray, who has been critical of the Devendra Fadnavis-led Maharashtra government on several issues.

“This is a political conspiracy by Delhi to tarnish the image of the Thackeray family, which enjoys a place in the hearts of people,” Raut was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

Raut Links FIR To Maratha Quota Agitation

The Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP also alleged that the development was aimed at diverting attention from Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange’s agitation.

Raut further claimed that the FIR was intended to put pressure on Shiv Sena (UBT) to support the delimitation bill in Parliament.

What Is The Disha Salian Case?

Disha Salian, who had briefly worked as Sushant Singh Rajput’s manager, died on June 8, 2020, after falling from the 12th floor of a residential building in Mumbai’s Malad area.

Salian, 28, initially had her death registered as an accidental death and it was later treated as suicide.

Just six days later, on June 14, 2020, Rajput was found dead at his residence in Mumbai’s Bandra area.

The proximity of the two deaths led to widespread speculation about a possible connection between the cases. However, the latest CBI investigation will examine the allegations surrounding Salian’s death in accordance with the court-directed probe.