Mumbai Sessions Court has directed Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) police to inquire into cheating charges filed by Prithviraj Saremal Kothari, a bullion trader against Bollywood actress, Shilpa Shetty and her businessman husband, Raj Kundra.
Shilpa-Raj’s cheating case in brief
According to Kothari, it was through their company Satyug Gold Private Limited that Shetty and Kundra launched an investment scheme in 2014. Under this scheme, the investors were promised gold at a wholesale price upfront with guaranteed delivery on the due date without regard to market prices.
On April 2nd, 2019, he allegedly invested Rs.90 lakh for 5000gms of 24 carat gold. However, at maturity date he did not get gold nor the claimed value but instead was given a post-dated cheque amounting to only Rs.90 lakhs being his principal sum alone.
Court issues order for investigation into Shilpa-Raj’s cheating case
Judge NP Mehta of the Mumbai Sessions Court stated that based on Kothari’s complaint there are “prima facie cognizable offence.” A prima facie cognizable offense is an initial evidence that would justify calling in the police force and ordering them to investigate further. The allegations are now being investigated by BKC police station as instructed by court so that it determines whether any criminal provision under Indian Penal Code (IPC) law or Maharashtra Protection Of Interest Of Depositors Act (MPID Act) violated.
Police Investigate and decide next course of action regarding Shilpa-Raj’s cheating case
The BKC police will commence investigations into these accusations going forward. If they find enough evidence supporting Mr. Kothari’s claim they can file an FIR against Shilpa Shetty, Raj Kundra and other prospective accused individuals.
Neither Shilpa nor Raj appeared in court
This comes amidst a series of legal troubles for Raj Kundra who was arrested on pornography charges in 2021. It is important to note that these are only allegations and neither Shetty nor Kundra has been convicted of any offence.
