Laapataa Ladies actor Chhaya Kadam has landed in legal soup. The actor, known for giving powerful performances in films like All We Imagine As Light and Madgaon Express, allegedly admitted in a video interview, uploaded by a radio channel, to consuming meat from protected wildlife species—an action which can have legal consequences.
As per a report by Free Press Journal, based on the actor’s statements in the interview, a Mumbai-based NGO Plant and Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) wrote to the Thane Chief Conservator of Forests and the Divisional Forest Officer. The NGO said that Chhaya had claimed to have tasted meat from mouse deer, rabbits, wild boar, monitor lizard and porcupine – all of which are protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Following the complaint, the Forest Department has launched an official investigation and have also formed a team to track down the poachers and find those who may have helped the actor in getting the meat.
Rakesh Bhoir, the investigating officer in the case, told FPJ, “We got in touch with Kadam over the phone, where she informed us that she is out of town for a professional trip and will return only after four days. She has informed us that she is seeking legal advice to appear before us for the investigation.”
Another officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “Based on the video interview Kadam gave to a radio channel, we will track down the poachers in the area where the alleged activity took place and ensure that strict action is taken against the culprits.”