Bollywood actress Rhea Chakraborty, who found herself at the center of a media storm following the tragic death of her boyfriend, actor Sushant Singh Rajput, in June 2020, has finally been cleared of all allegations. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has reportedly given her a clean chit, concluding that Sushant died by suicide and that no foul play was involved.
Here’s a look at the timeline of events that shaped this high-profile case.
The Beginning: Love and Partnership
Rhea Chakraborty and Sushant Singh Rajput began dating in April 2019. Their relationship soon evolved into a business collaboration when they, along with Rhea’s brother Showik, co-founded an artificial intelligence startup, Vividrage Rhealityx, in September 2019. By December, the couple took their relationship to the next level by moving in together.
Tragic Loss: Sushant Singh Rajput’s Death
On June 14, 2020, the nation was left in shock when Sushant was found dead in his Mumbai apartment. Initial reports suggested suicide. Rhea, who had been living with him, had reportedly moved out a week prior.
Legal Turmoil: FIR Against Rhea
A month after Sushant’s death, on July 25, 2020, his father, KK Singh, filed an FIR in Patna, accusing Rhea of abetment to suicide, financial fraud, wrongful confinement, and criminal breach of trust involving ₹15 crore.
Multi-Agency Probe: ED, CBI, and NCB Enter the Scene
- August 7, 2020: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) questioned Rhea and Showik over money laundering allegations.
- August 19, 2020: The Supreme Court transferred the investigation to the CBI.
- Parallel Drug Probe: The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) launched a separate investigation into alleged drug links.
Rhea Fights Back: Counter FIR
In a legal counterattack, Rhea filed an FIR against Sushant’s sisters Priyanka and Meetu Singh, along with a doctor, on September 7, 2020. She alleged that they obtained a fake medical prescription for Sushant without consultation, just days before his death.
Arrest and Jail Time
Rhea’s troubles worsened when the NCB arrested her on September 8, 2020, accusing her of procuring drugs for Sushant. She was charged under the NDPS Act and spent 28 days in Byculla jail before being granted bail by the Bombay High Court on October 7, 2020.
Legal Developments and Court Rulings
- February 2021: The Bombay High Court dismissed the FIR against Meetu Singh but allowed the CBI to continue its probe against Priyanka Singh.
- March 2021: The NCB filed a charge sheet against Rhea, Showik, and others in connection with drug-related allegations.
Public Scrutiny and Career Impact
Rhea faced an unprecedented media trial, brutal trolling, and even death threats. Her professional career came to a standstill, but she eventually made a comeback, appearing as a gang leader in ‘MTV Roadies’ and launching her podcast, ‘Chapter 2.’
Supreme Court and CBI’s Final Verdict
- October 2024: The Supreme Court dismissed the lookout circular against Rhea and her family.
- March 2025: The CBI’s final report ruled out any foul play, confirming that Sushant Singh Rajput’s death was a case of suicide. This officially cleared Rhea and her family of any wrongdoing.
A New Chapter for Rhea ChakrabortyWith the CBI’s clean chit, Rhea Chakraborty can finally put this dark chapter behind her. After enduring five years of relentless scrutiny, the actress is set to reclaim her life and career. Will Bollywood welcome her back with open arms? Only time will tell.
