A source says the notice was sent to Hrithik on Monday by Abraham Mathai, All India President of the Indian Christian Voice, an organisation representing the larger interests of the Christian community, including Roman Catholics, in India. The notice, which is in hitlist's possession, reads: "Our client Dr Abraham Mathai, who is a Christian by birth and faith... is extremely hurt by your disobedient and inexcusable comments, which has hurt the religious feelings and sentiments of majority of Christians across the world."
Speaking to hitlist, Mathai says, "We demand Mr Roshan recants his statement and issues an unconditional apology. While we respect Mr Roshan's personal life including his right to choose who he wishes to be in a relationship with, we do take offense at dragging a religious head into it just so attention may be diverted, and the media glare move away. Such statements are irresponsible and not called for by a celebrity, thousands of whose fans are from the Catholic community and who believe that the Pope is their religious and revered head."
Mathai's lawyer Rizwan Siddiquee says the criminal notice has been sent under Section 295 A of the Indian Penal Code over Hrithik's "unwarranted and uncalled for comments made against the highly respected Pope Francis" on Twitter on January 28. "My client wants a written public apology from Hrithik Roshan within seven days," he adds.
Hrithik Roshan's manager did not respond to our text messages.
