Indian actress Kasturi Shankar arrested for alleged racist remarks

South Indian actress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporter Kasturi Shankar was arrested in Hyderabad on charges of making alleged racist remarks.

Her detention follows the rejection of her anticipatory bail by the Madras High Court’s Madurai bench.

Police arrested Shankar at a friend's residence in Hyderabad’s Gachibowli area after a brief period in hiding.

The arrest stemmed from comments made by Shankar at a Hindu Makkal Katchi (HMK) event in Tamil Nadu, where she allegedly made disparaging remarks about the Telugu community, triggering widespread backlash.

The Indian police filed a case against Shankar, including charges of incitement and creating unrest.

The 50-year-old actress later apologised, stating, "My intent was never to offend the Telugu community. I apologise if I unintentionally caused anyone distress." However, the court dismissed her apology, ruling her statement as "hate speech" and noting that public figures must consider their words carefully.

The court also remarked that her apology appeared insincere and inadequate in addressing the harm caused by her statements.

Kasturi Shankar, known for her roles in Bollywood and various South Indian films, has actively campaigned for the BJP, most recently during the 2024 general elections in Madurai.