Renowned producer-director Vikram Bhatt, arrested by Rajasthan Police last month over an alleged ₹30 crore cheating case, faces fresh legal trouble after Mumbai Police Police registered another case of fraud against him.
The case stems from a complaint lodged by Pune based film financier Shivraj Prithviraj Khawade, who alleged that Bhatt induced him to invest a substantial amount in upcoming film projects by ensuring high returns.
As per complaint, Bhatt accepted ₹13.50 crore from Khawade in 2021, assuring him of profits within a stipulated period. However, notwithstanding repeated follow-ups, neither the principal amount nor any profit was returned.
As per Police sources the accused allegedly continued to mislead the complainant over the years, citing delays in film production and financial constraints. The complainant further alleged that the amount was neither invested as promised nor refunded even after four years.
A senior police official confirmed that an FIR has been registered under Section 420 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code against Vikram Bhatt and Krishna Bhatt at Versova police station. Considering the magnitude of the alleged fraud, the investigation has been transferred to the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Mumbai Police.
Last month, Rajasthan Police arrested Vikram Bhatt and his wife, Shwetambar Bhatt, in connection with a separate Rs 30 crore cheating case, further compounding his legal troubles. Investigators are now examining whether multiple investors were similarly duped using promises of high returns from film projects. Further investigation is underway.
News Edit KV Raman
