Rhea Chakraborty, who faced intense scrutiny and vilification after actor Sushant Singh Rajput’s death on June 14, 2020, was cleared of all wrongdoing after the CBI’s closure report in March 2025

HEMA SINGULURI | Hyderabad 

Following journalist Preeti Choudhary’s public apology to actor Rhea Chakraborty, public debate has reignited over media accountability in India. Many praised the journalist’s courage, while others called it too little, too late.

Rhea Chakraborty, who faced intense scrutiny and vilification after actor Sushant Singh Rajput’s death on June 14, 2020, was cleared of all wrongdoing after the CBI’s closure report in March 2025, which ruled out foul play. The report triggered renewed discussion on the years of emotional and professional damage she endured during the media trial.

Apologies and Reactions

In a candid statement, Preeti Choudhary said, “It was a disgrace, and I’m sorry.” Admitting the media’s role in amplifying baseless accusations, she added, “As a collective, we owe Rhea an apology because a huge chunk of what we did was a disgrace.” Her remarks quickly went viral, earning both applause and criticism across social media.

Zee founder Subhash Chandra also issued an apology on X, acknowledging that the network’s coverage had unfairly painted Chakraborty as an accused. “She was made out to be guilty by the media, led by Zee News through its editor and reporters at the time. I do apologize to Rhea, even with no personal involvement,” he wrote.

Bollywood figures supported the gesture but demanded broader accountability. Dia Mirza urged the entire media fraternity to admit fault, while Pooja Bhatt wrote, “The truth has prevailed. #PrayersAnswered,” echoing relief after the CBI’s verdict.

Public Response

Public sentiment online remains divided. While many users praised Choudhary’s courage, others argued that a single apology is insufficient. One X user wrote, “The entire channel owes a public apology to Rhea and her family.” Another remarked, “Justice may be delayed, but it will not be denied.”

A Facebook post read, “A large section of the media owes Rhea Chakraborty and her family a huge apology.” Users also cited the Bombay High Court’s October 2025 decision to return Chakraborty’s passport as further vindication.

The episode has reignited scrutiny of the media’s role in shaping public perception and the ethics of sensational coverage. While Rhea Chakraborty has received an outpouring of support from peers and the public, the debate over responsible journalism and accountability continues to dominate discussions online.