Bigg Boss Marathi fame Divya Shinde arrested in Rs 5 lakh extortion, assault case

Actor and social media influencer Divya Shinde, known for her appearance on Bigg Boss Marathi 6, has been arrested by the Pune Police in connection with an alleged physical assault and Rs 5 lakh extortion case involving a 65-year-old retired medical officer. Following her arrest, Shinde was produced before a local court, which remanded her in police custody till September 30.

According to the police, the complainant, Dr Vidyadhar Gaikwad, retired as the Chief Medical Officer of Pune Cantonment Hospital in 2022 and is associated with the Karunadeep Foundation. The NGO had organised a cultural event, the 'Kala Avishkar Mahotsav', at Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir from September 1 to 3. Police stated that Shinde was neither officially invited by Dr Gaikwad or the organisation, nor was she assigned any publicity-related duties for the event.

However, as per the complaint, Shinde allegedly contacted Dr Gaikwad via phone calls and messages starting in August, claiming she had promoted the event on social media and demanding Rs 5 lakh as publicity charges.

The dispute escalated when Shinde, along with several associates, allegedly forced entry into Dr Gaikwad’s residence. The complainant alleged that he was verbally abused, physically assaulted, and threatened with death if he failed to pay the demanded amount. He further stated that household property was damaged during the confrontation.

Based on Dr Gaikwad's complaint, the police registered a formal case against Shinde and her accomplices. Investigators are currently probing the alleged assault, examining the role of the other individuals present during the incident, and reviewing the financial demand. Shinde's participation in Bigg Boss Marathi 6 significantly elevated her public profile and expanded her Instagram following to over 1.1 million.- EndsRead more | Riteish Deshmukh opens up on hosting pressures ahead of Bigg Boss Marathi 6

Omkar Wable has been working in the media since 2018. He is the curious about the world. Political coverage is his core competency and social issues have always been a priority. Covering ground reports from various communities along with civic issues is strength.