Mumbai High Court Orders Passport Return
Bollywood actress Rhea Chakraborty has regained her passport after nearly five years. On 30 September, the Bombay High Court directed the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) to return her travel document.
The decision came in light of Chakraborty’s consistent cooperation with authorities, strict compliance with bail conditions, and regular court appearances. The court noted that her conduct since being granted bail demonstrated responsibility and adherence to legal obligations.
With the passport back in her possession, Chakraborty can now travel abroad without prior court approval. However, she must inform authorities before and after each trip, providing travel details as a condition of continued bail.
Actress Reacts with Emotional Instagram Post
Shortly after the court order, Rhea Chakraborty shared an emotional post on Instagram, holding her passport and reflecting on her struggles.
“For the past five years, patience has been my only passport,” she wrote. “After countless battles and endless hope, I have finally reclaimed it.”
Her post quickly went viral, drawing messages of support from fans, colleagues, and members of the Indian film industry. Many described her recovery of the passport as symbolic of resilience after years of public scrutiny.
The Case Against Rhea Chakraborty
Rhea Chakraborty was arrested in June 2020 following the death of Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput, her partner at the time. Rajput’s death sparked nationwide debate, with media outlets and social media platforms amplifying conspiracy theories.
The NCB accused Chakraborty of procuring drugs for Rajput, linking her to a wider investigation into narcotics use in the film industry. She spent almost a month in custody before being granted bail in October 2020.
The bail came with stringent conditions, including the surrender of her passport, restrictions on foreign travel, and mandatory appearances before investigators.
At the time, the case drew massive media attention and polarized public opinion. Supporters of Rajput pushed for severe action, while others criticized what they saw as a targeted campaign against Chakraborty.
A Step Toward Normalcy
The High Court’s recent order significantly eases Chakraborty’s restrictions, allowing her to rebuild her career and personal life. Legal experts note that while the case has not been fully resolved, the court’s trust in her compliance signals a softening of the stringent conditions imposed in 2020.
For Chakraborty, the decision represents a step back toward normalcy after years of legal hurdles and intense public attention. Observers say her ability to work and travel freely will play a crucial role in reviving her acting career.
Wider Impact on Bollywood and Society
The Sushant Singh Rajput case remains one of Bollywood’s most controversial chapters in recent history. It exposed the vulnerability of film stars to public trials in the media, highlighted the role of investigative agencies, and fueled conversations around mental health, drug use, and media ethics in India.
According to the NCB, dozens of actors and industry professionals were questioned as part of its probe. While the agency has filed multiple chargesheets, convictions have been rare. Critics argue that the case created more sensational headlines than substantive results.
Looking Ahead
For Rhea Chakraborty, regaining her passport may mark a turning point. Industry insiders suggest that international projects and endorsements, once out of reach, could now be possible.
Still, the broader legal process continues. The case linked to Sushant Singh Rajput’s death remains open, and Chakraborty must continue complying with court directives.
Nevertheless, her regained freedom to travel is seen by many as both a personal victory and a sign of gradual closure in one of Bollywood’s most closely watched sagas.
