CBI Launches Probe Into Disha Salian's 2020 Death After High Court Order
The Central Bureau of Investigation has filed an FIR in the Disha Salian death case, naming political figures and renewing debate six years after the incident.
By Grace Whitfield · First published 16 Sept 2026
In brief
- Disha Salian, Sushant Singh Rajput's former manager, died in Mumbai in June 2020 after falling from a building.
- Her death was initially treated as an accidental death, but the Bombay High Court recently ordered a new investigation.
- The CBI has now filed an FIR naming prominent figures including Aaditya Thackeray, Uddhav Thackeray, and Rhea Chakraborty.
- CBI officer Seema Pahuja, known for handling sensitive cases, is leading the new investigation.
- The case has triggered political debate in Maharashtra, with allegations of vendetta and widespread media attention.
Timeline · 6 moments
Disha Salian found dead in Mumbai, case registered as accidental
India News ↗Bombay High Court orders fresh CBI investigation into Salian case
The Hindu ↗CBI files FIR, names Aaditya Thackeray and others in the case
Scroll.in ↗Seema Pahuja assigned to lead CBI investigation
Times of India ↗Aaditya Thackeray publicly denies knowing Disha Salian
Times of India ↗Details of witness statements and hospital report emerge
NDTV India ↗How it started
Disha Salian was the former manager of actor Sushant Singh Rajput. On June 8, 2020, she died after falling from a building in Mumbai. At the time, police registered her death as an Accidental Death Report, and there was no immediate evidence of foul play. However, the timing of her death, just days before Sushant Singh Rajput was found dead, drew significant public and media scrutiny.
Over the years, questions about the investigation and allegations of political interference persisted. Calls for a deeper probe grew louder, especially as high-profile names were linked to the events surrounding her death.
How it unfolded
On September 14, 2026, the Bombay High Court ordered a fresh investigation into Disha Salian's death, citing previous police inaction and unresolved questions. Following this order, the Central Bureau of Investigation registered an FIR in the case.
The FIR named several prominent individuals, including Maharashtra politicians Aaditya Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray, as well as actor Rhea Chakraborty. This move immediately sparked intense political debate in Maharashtra, with allegations from opposition parties that the probe was politically motivated.
The CBI assigned Seema Pahuja, an officer experienced in high-profile and sensitive investigations, to lead the case. Media outlets reported her background in handling complex criminal cases and forensic work. Meanwhile, new details emerged from past witness statements, including a police constable's note that Salian was brought to the hospital by two men and a woman.
Aaditya Thackeray publicly denied ever meeting Disha Salian, calling the allegations against him baseless and part of a false campaign. Political leaders and commentators weighed in, debating whether the investigation would reveal new facts or simply escalate partisan tensions.
Where it stands
The CBI investigation is now underway, led by Seema Pahuja. The FIR has brought renewed attention to the case, especially with high-profile names involved. Political debate continues, with government officials promising that the truth will come out through the probe, while opposition leaders question the motives behind the timing and scope of the investigation.
With the CBI now formally involved and new witness accounts under review, the case has moved into a new phase after years of speculation and public interest.
What to watch
Key questions remain about what new evidence, if any, the CBI will uncover as it re-examines witness statements and circumstances around Disha Salian's death. The political implications are significant, and further developments in the investigation are likely to keep the case in the spotlight.


