Thaindian News

Mumbai, March 31 (IANS) Bollywood star Salman Khan was shocked when he heard actor Shiney Ahuja has been sentenced to seven years in prison in a rape case. But he hopes the actor will eventually be declared innocent.

“Seven years? Seven years is a lot! I have been locked up myself, so I know what happens,” said Salman, who himself has had brief stints in jail.

The 45-year-old actor, who was embroiled in a hit-and-run case as well as in a black buck shooting case, has good wishes for Shiney, who was sentenced by a Mumbai sessions court Wednesday.

“I hope he (Shiney) is innocent, and if anyone is trying to frame him, that person should come out in the open. Seven year jail term is too long, especially if someone has lied about it,” added Salman.

According to reports, Shiney might appeal against the verdict in the Bombay High Court.

Shiney, best known for films like “Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi”, “Gangster” and “Life…In A Metro”, was arrested June 15, 2009, after medical tests on his maid confirmed sexual assault. He was granted bail in October 2009.

In September 2010, the maid retracted her statement and told the court that the rape never took place. She also stated before the judge that she made the serious charge against Shiney because of pressure from a woman who introduced her to the actor.

In a 109-page chargesheet, Shiney was accused of rape, criminal intimidation and holding his maid hostage.

In his defence, Shiney had argued that he was being framed.