The Mumbai EOW has invoked IPC Section 420 (Cheating and Dishonestly Inducing Delivery of Property) against the couple in a ₹60.48 crore fraud case. This addition follows the discovery of fresh electronic evidence and witness statements during the ongoing probe.
Key Highlights of the Case
The Allegation: Businessman Deepak Kothari filed a complaint alleging that he was duped of over ₹60 crore in a "loan-cum-investment" deal between 2015 and 2023.
The Company: The deal was linked to the couple’s now-defunct home shopping firm, Best Deal TV Pvt Ltd.
Misuse of Funds: The complainant claims that the funds, meant for business expansion, were allegedly diverted for personal use.
Escalation: Initially, the case was registered under Section 406 (Criminal Breach of Trust), but the evidence led police to add the more serious Section 420.
Current Legal Status
Travel Restrictions: The Bombay High Court recently directed the couple to either deposit ₹60 crore or provide a bank guarantee if they wish to travel abroad, as a Look Out Circular (LOC) is currently active against them.
Potential ED Involvement: Since Section 420 is a "scheduled offense," the Enforcement Directorate (ED) may now step in to investigate potential money laundering (PMLA) charges.
Response from Shilpa Shetty & Raj Kundra
The couple has categorically denied all allegations, calling them "baseless and motivated."
"The issues are being given a criminal color without any lawful basis. It is a civil dispute arising from a failed business venture," Raj Kundra stated on social media.