A defamation case totaling Rs 100 crore has been lodged against Poonam Pandey and her husband, Sam Bombay, by Faizan Ansari, who filed a First Information Report (FIR) with the Kanpur police commissioner in India.
Ansari alleges that Pandey and Bombay conspired to stage Pandey’s death, falsely claiming she had succumbed to cervical cancer. This purported stunt, Ansari contends, trivializes the seriousness of cancer and exploits the emotions and trust of millions, including those within the Bollywood industry.
The complaint demands an arrest warrant be issued against the couple.
On February 3, Pandey took to Instagram to dispel rumors of her demise, asserting her vitality and expressing pride in the attention garnered by the false reports. She apologized to her followers for the distress caused.
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Reports of Pandey’s supposed death circulated widely on February 2.
In her video addressing the matter, Pandey stated, “I am alive. I didn’t die of cervical cancer. Unfortunately, I can’t say that about those hundreds and thousands of women who have lost their lives because of cervical cancer.” She emphasized the preventable nature of the disease and advocated for HPV vaccination and early detection tests.
Accompanying her message, Pandey shared, “Unlike some other cancers, cervical cancer is entirely preventable. The key lies in the HPV vaccine and early detection tests. We have the means to ensure no one loses their life to this disease. Let’s empower one another with critical awareness and ensure every woman is informed about the steps to take. Visit the link in the bio to delve deeper into what can be done. Together, let’s strive to put an end to the devastating impact of the disease and bring #DeathToCervicalCancer.”
Earlier on February 2, a post from Pandey’s team on her official Instagram account announced her supposed passing due to cervical cancer. The post requested privacy as they mourned her loss.
Speaking to Hauterrfly.com, Pandey’s manager, Nikita Sharma, praised Pandey’s dedication to her craft and her resilience in the face of health challenges. Sharma remarked that Pandey’s passing underscores the importance of prioritizing health, particularly in cases of preventable diseases like cervical cancer.
