Rithu Akarsha refutes allegations, vows legal action

Allegations linking actress Rithu Akarsha to a bank account referenced in the unexplained assets case against former Minister Mervyn Silva are false and misleading, Akarsha pointed out, denying reports circulating in mainstream and social media.

The statement comes after media reports on an ongoing case filed by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) against Silva, alleging that he amassed more than 600 million rupees in unexplained assets between March 31, 2010 and March 31, 2012.

Court proceedings reportedly referred to funds credited to a DFCC Bank account bearing the name "Rithu Akarsha."

Rithu Akarsha stated that she never maintained a DFCC Bank account and that the account number cited in the indictment does not belong to her.

She attached a letter issued by DFCC Bank, at her request, confirming that she does not hold such an account.

She further stated that during the 2010–2012 period referred to in the indictment, she was a school student.

Rithu Akarsha initiated legal action against media organisations, social media platforms, and individuals who published or shared content linking her to the transaction, alleging that the reports caused serious damage to her personal reputation and professional standing.

Anyone who publishes or republishes false, manipulated, or misleading information associating her with the transaction will face legal action, she added.