Bollywood actress Hansika Motwani has taken legal action against her estranged sister-in-law, television actor Muskan Nancy James, by filing a defamation suit in a Mumbai sessions court. Motwani is seeking Rs 2 crore in damages and a court order to prevent James from making further defamatory statements. The lawsuit, represented by advocate Adnan Shaikh, alleges that James made false accusations on social media to evade repaying a purported Rs 27 lakh loan borrowed during her marriage to Motwani’s brother, Prashant Motwani.
Motwani clarified her limited involvement in her brother’s marriage and denied residing with the couple. She highlighted that the deteriorating relationship between Prashant and James was largely unknown to her. James, described as a “small-time television actor,” is accused of flaunting a luxurious lifestyle online while neglecting her financial obligations.
The legal dispute arises from previous claims made by James against her husband and Motwani, alleging cruelty and harassment. These accusations included domestic violence, marital interference, and extravagant demands during wedding ceremonies. Motwani refuted all allegations, emphasizing her non-involvement in the couple’s domestic affairs.
Motwani had approached the Bombay High Court to dismiss the FIR against her, arguing its baselessness and detrimental impact on her reputation. Simultaneously, she initiated a criminal defamation case against James in a magistrate court under relevant legal provisions. The ongoing conflict stems from the troubled marriage between Prashant Motwani and James, who have been living separately since 2022 after marrying in 2020.
The defamation lawsuit is scheduled for a hearing at the Dindoshi sessions court, reflecting the escalating legal battle between the involved parties.