'Baseless & Motivated allegations': Shilpa Shetty DENIES allegations of 'cheating' in 60 crore fraud case

Bollywood actor Shilpa Shetty recently found herself at the centre of a legal controversy after reports surfaced suggesting that she and her husband Raj Kundra had been booked in connection with an alleged financial fraud case involving a sum of Rs 60 crore. The reports quickly gained traction, leading to widespread speculation and intense media attention. According to these claims, the Economic Offences Wing had added charges of cheating under Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code, significantly escalating the matter and expanding the scope of the ongoing investigation.

Soon after the reports began circulating, Shilpa Shetty addressed the claims publicly and strongly denied any wrongdoing. In the second development that clarified her position, the actor issued an official statement through her Instagram story, rejecting what she described as unfounded allegations. She wrote, 'We categorically deny the baseless and motivated allegations being circulated. The issues sought to be raised are being given a criminal colour without any lawful basis. A Quashing Petition has already been filed before the Hon'ble High Court and is pending adjudication.'

In her statement, Shilpa emphasized that the matter is already before the court and urged restraint in reporting. She further added, 'Having fully cooperated with the investigation, we are sanguine that justice will prevail and have complete faith in the law enforcement authorities and the judicial system of our country. We respectfully urge the media to exercise restraint as the matter is sub judice.'

The controversy stems from earlier reports which claimed that the Economic Offences Wing decided to include an additional charge of cheating after reviewing submissions made by the complainant’s legal team. These reports suggested that investigators found sufficient material during the probe to justify expanding the case, thereby widening the legal scrutiny faced by those named in the complaint. The alleged fraud case has reportedly been under investigation for some time, and the addition of the cheating charge was said to mark a significant turn in the proceedings.

While the reports triggered widespread reactions, Shilpa’s response made it clear that she and her husband are contesting the allegations through legal channels. By filing a quashing petition before the High Court, the actor indicated that she believes the accusations lack merit and will not stand judicial scrutiny.

The situation has once again highlighted the challenges public figures face when legal disputes become the subject of intense public discourse. Shilpa’s appeal to the media to exercise caution reflects concerns about the impact of ongoing legal matters being discussed before a court delivers its verdict.

As of now, the case remains under consideration, with legal proceedings continuing. Both Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra maintain their innocence, stating that they have cooperated fully with authorities and are confident that the judicial process will bring clarity to the matter.