Mumbai: Actor Sooraj Pancholi has objected to the “unanswered” tag associated with actress Jiah Khan’s death case, saying that he spent 14 years fighting to prove his innocence and that the matter was already decided by the court based on facts.
In a recent Instagram post, Sooraj expressed his disappointment over continued references to the case despite his acquittal, saying he does not understand what more needs to be answered after the court’s decision.
‘I Spent 14 Years Fighting to Prove My Innocence’
Sharing an emotional note on Instagram, Sooraj recalled that he was only 20 years old when the incident took place and said the case had a major impact on his life.
He wrote that he had known Jiah Khan for only around four months and was unaware of what she may have been experiencing internally at that time.
Sooraj said that instead of focusing on building his career and life, he spent years dealing with a legal battle that affected his twenties and a significant part of his thirties.
Actor Says Acquittal Should Be Respected
Sooraj stated that even after being acquitted by the court, some people continue to treat him as guilty.
He said he chose to remain silent for years out of respect and never publicly discussed the personal struggles Jiah had shared with him.
The actor added that he protected her privacy despite the difficulties he faced and requested the same fairness and respect in return.
Jiah Khan Death Case Background
Jiah Khan was found dead at her Mumbai residence on June 3, 2013. The case was initially treated as a suicide, while her mother later alleged that it was a case of murder.
Sooraj Pancholi, who was reportedly in a relationship with Jiah at the time, was accused of abetment to suicide.
In April 2023, a special CBI court acquitted Sooraj Pancholi in the case, citing a lack of sufficient evidence against him.
Following his latest statement, Sooraj urged people discussing the matter to present the complete facts with sensitivity and responsibility.