Actor Shilpa Shetty and her businessman husband Raj Kundra have been booked by Mumbai Police’s Economic Offences Wing (EOW) in connection with a Rs 60 crore fraud case. The action follows a complaint by businessman Deepak Kothari, who alleged that he was cheated in a loan-cum-investment deal involving a company linked to the couple, bringing Shilpa Shetty Raj Kundra under legal scrutiny.
Why Mumbai EOW Added Cheating Charges
According to a statement issued by the complainant’s lawyers, the EOW added a charge of cheating after examining evidence gathered during the investigation. Officials said the findings warranted a broader probe, which is expected to deepen the investigation against Shilpa Shetty Raj Kundra and others associated with the company.
The First Information Report (FIR) was registered based on Kothari’s complaint, in which he claimed he was induced to invest large sums of money on assurances of returns.
Details Of The Rs 60 Crore Investment Deal
Shilpa Shetty Raj Kundra were directors of Best Deal TV Private Limited, a home shopping and online retail platform that has since shut down. The complainant alleged that between 2015 and 2023, he invested nearly Rs 60 crore in the company.
According to the complaint, the funds were meant to support business operations. However, Kothari claimed the money was allegedly diverted for personal use, forming the basis of the case registered by the EOW against Shilpa Shetty Raj Kundra.
Possible ED Action Under PMLA
The complainant’s legal team has indicated that it will approach the Enforcement Directorate (ED) seeking action under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The lawyers said they would request the ED to identify, trace, and seize the alleged proceeds of crime, along with attachment of assets linked to the Shilpa Shetty Raj Kundra case.
Such a move could significantly expand the legal proceedings beyond the current police investigation.
Raj Kundra’s Response To Allegations
During questioning, Raj Kundra reportedly told investigators that a portion of the money received was paid as professional fees to actors Bipasha Basu and Neha Dhupia. He also stated that Best Deal TV suffered major losses after demonetisation in 2016, which severely impacted its business and ability to repay funds.
The EOW continues to examine financial records and statements as the investigation involving Shilpa Shetty Raj Kundra remains ongoing.
FAQs
Q: Who filed the complaint against Shilpa Shetty Raj Kundra?
A: Businessman Deepak Kothari filed the complaint alleging cheating in a loan-cum-investment deal.
Q: Why did Mumbai EOW add cheating charges against Shilpa Shetty Raj Kundra?
A: Investigators said evidence collected during the probe justified adding the cheating charge.
Q: Will the Enforcement Directorate investigate Shilpa Shetty Raj Kundra?
A: The complainant plans to approach the ED for action under PMLA, including asset attachment.
Q: Has Shilpa Shetty responded publicly to the case?
A: No separate public statement has been issued by her so far.
