National-level shooter Tara Shahdeo has described the upcoming film The Kerala Story 2 as “eye-opening,” stating that its themes closely mirror her own life experience from 2014.

In a recent interaction with ANI, Shahdeo reflected on her decade-long legal struggle and said she first heard the term “love jihad” through media coverage following her marriage. “At that time, I didn’t even know what the term meant. I believed justice would be swift and that strong punishment would deter such incidents,” she said.

The 2014 Case and Legal Battle

The case dates back to 2014 when Shahdeo married a man she knew as Ranjit Singh Kohli. She later alleged that his real identity was Raqibul Hasan and accused him of concealing his identity, subjecting her to physical and mental harassment, and pressuring her to convert after marriage.

The matter was investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). According to the agency, the investigation revealed serious allegations, including identity concealment and coercion.

In October 2023, a special CBI court in Ranchi, Jharkhand, delivered its verdict. Raqibul Hasan was sentenced to life imprisonment, while his mother was also convicted and sentenced in the case.

“Open Discussion Could Have Helped”

Shahdeo emphasized the importance of open dialogue in society regarding such issues. She stated that greater awareness and earlier discussion might have prevented years of struggle.

“If films can spark conversations in society, that is a positive step. Some people see it as just a story, but for me, it was reality,” she said, adding that broader awareness could help protect others from similar experiences.

Marriage Was Approved After Due Diligence

Clarifying misconceptions, Shahdeo noted that her marriage was arranged after careful consideration by her family. She said her family conducted background checks and believed they were agreeing to a suitable match.

“My family was not blinded by emotion. We believed we were making an informed decision,” she explained.

A Nine-Year Fight for Justice

Shahdeo described the case as a prolonged legal battle that lasted nearly nine years. She said the journey was emotionally and mentally exhausting but ultimately reaffirmed her faith in the judicial system.

Her remarks come amid renewed public discussion surrounding The Kerala Story 2, with debates focusing on awareness, social sensitivity, and the importance of informed decision-making in personal relationships.

— NewsAdd Report