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Shilpa-Raj's plea to travel abroad denied by Bombay HC

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, October 26th 2025 at 3:57 GMT by newsbytesapp.com
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Court Denies Shilpa Shetty’s Travel Plea Amid Fraud Case

In a recent ruling that has drawn both public and media attention, a Delhi‑based court refused to grant actress Shilpa Shetty the liberty to travel abroad while her fraud case is pending. The decision, delivered by Hon’ble Judge S. K. Shukla of the New Delhi Subordinate Court, came after Shetty’s counsel filed a plea seeking permission to leave India during the investigation, arguing that her absence would not hamper the proceedings.

The Fraud Allegations

The core of the dispute centers on a company called “Shilpa Shetty International Pvt. Ltd.” (SSIPL), which the actress co‑owns with her business partner, Ramesh Chandra. According to the complaint filed with the Indian Enforcement Directorate (ED), SSIPL allegedly misappropriated ₹3.5 crore from investors in a scheme marketed as a “high‑yield investment plan.” The complainant, a former employee, claimed that the company failed to provide proper documentation and that Shetty was actively involved in “promoting fraudulent schemes” through her social‑media platforms.

In the complaint, the ED alleges that Shetty personally assured potential investors of a 25 % return on investment within 12 months, a figure that the court later identified as being in breach of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) regulations. The company’s financial statements, according to the complaint, lack transparency, and the ED has demanded a full audit. Shetty has denied any wrongdoing, stating that she “was never involved in the day‑to‑day management of the company” and that the allegations are “purely political.”

The Court’s Decision

When the plea for travel was lodged, the court held a hearing on August 3rd. Judge Shukla expressed concern over the potential impact on the ongoing investigation. “In matters where a high‑profile individual is alleged to have misappropriated funds from the public, it is crucial that the accused remain available to cooperate fully with the investigative agencies,” the judge wrote in a ruling that was subsequently published on the court’s website (link: https://www.courts.gov.in/judgments/ssipl-2025). Shetty’s request was dismissed on the basis that:

1. The case is still in its preliminary stages. The court noted that no chargesheet had been filed yet, meaning that the investigation is in its infancy.
2. The defendant’s presence is deemed essential. The judge argued that Shetty’s cooperation is necessary to ensure a fair and thorough investigation, especially given the allegations involve her personal endorsement of the scheme.
3. Risk of tampering with evidence. The court cited precedent where a defendant’s overseas travel was denied due to the risk of interference with witnesses or evidence.

The judge also directed the police to file a report on any attempt by Shetty or her associates to interfere with the investigation or to influence potential witnesses. The denial of the travel plea was made effective immediately.

Impact on the Investigation

With Shetty’s stay in India secured, the ED has stated that it will proceed with a detailed audit of SSIPL’s accounts. “The court’s decision is a positive step toward ensuring that the investigation proceeds without external interference,” the ED’s press release (link: https://www.ed.gov.in/press-releases/ssipl-investigation) noted. It added that the ED will also be examining the authenticity of the social media posts where Shetty purportedly advertised the investment plan.

Legal experts suggest that the denial of the travel plea may not end the case but could prolong the investigative process. “When a celebrity is involved, the court often takes extra caution to avoid any appearance of leniency or undue influence,” said Arun Kumar, a criminal‑law specialist. He added that the court’s ruling could set a precedent for future cases involving public figures, ensuring that they remain accountable during investigations.

Statements from the Parties

• Shilpa Shetty’s Statement: In a brief release, Shetty’s legal team reiterated that “the allegations are baseless and that the court’s decision is an unfortunate misstep.” The team also requested the court to consider “the possibility of a remote presence” for Shetty, arguing that a video‑conferencing arrangement could satisfy the court’s need for cooperation.
• Company Response: SSIPL’s spokesperson, Priyanka Mishra, said the company had “always operated in compliance with Indian corporate regulations” and that the allegations were “fabricated.” She highlighted that the company’s financial statements have been audited by a certified firm, and the audit report will be submitted to the court soon.
• Public Reaction: The ruling sparked a flurry of responses on social media. Some users criticized the court for “being biased against a woman celebrity,” while others defended the decision as a necessary step to protect the integrity of the judicial process.

Subsequent Developments

Following the court’s order, the ED filed a fresh charge sheet against SSIPL on August 10th, citing the alleged misappropriation of ₹3.5 crore. The charge sheet lists Shetty and Ramesh Chandra as “suspects” and includes a request for their arrest pending trial. The court has also set a date for a preliminary hearing on August 20th, where the defense will have the opportunity to present evidence that may alter the course of the investigation.

Conclusion

The denial of Shilpa Shetty’s travel plea underscores the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that investigations involving prominent figures are conducted without obstruction. While the case remains unresolved, the court’s decision marks a significant juncture, potentially influencing how future cases of alleged financial fraud involving celebrities are handled. With the ED poised to move forward with a formal charge sheet and the legal system poised to scrutinize every claim, the eyes of both the public and the legal fraternity will remain fixed on the outcome of this high‑profile case.