Mumbai Police Issues Lookout Circular
Mumbai Police have issued a Lookout Circular (LOC) against Bollywood actor Shilpa Shetty and her husband, businessman Raj Kundra, in connection with an alleged ₹60 crore fraud case.
Officials confirmed on Friday that the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) initiated the LOC due to the couple’s frequent foreign travel. The move ensures that immigration authorities are alerted if either Shetty or Kundra attempts to leave India while investigations are ongoing.
The case, filed at Juhu police station on August 14, accuses the couple of cheating a businessman in a loan-cum-investment deal worth nearly ₹60 crore.
Allegations of Cheating and Fraud
According to the complaint, the businessman alleged that Shetty and Kundra induced him to invest in a scheme under the pretext of significant returns. However, the promised returns reportedly never materialized, resulting in substantial financial loss.
Police sources said the matter involves both investment and loan components, making the case complex. Investigators are now examining financial records, bank transactions, and contracts linked to the deal.
The EOW is also probing whether the couple’s companies or associates played a role in the alleged fraud.
What Is a Lookout Circular?
A Lookout Circular is a preventive measure issued by authorities to track or restrict a person’s movement, especially when international travel is frequent. Immigration officers at airports and border points are immediately notified when a person named in an LOC tries to leave the country.
Such notices are commonly issued in high-profile financial crimes or cases involving economic offences, where there is a risk of the accused fleeing the country.
Officials clarified that the LOC against Shetty and Kundra does not imply guilt but ensures their availability for investigation.
Past Controversies Surrounding Raj Kundra
Raj Kundra has faced legal troubles before. In 2021, he was arrested in connection with an alleged pornography racket. Though he was later released on bail, the case generated widespread media attention and scrutiny over his business dealings.
This latest LOC adds to the challenges for the couple, who have often been in the spotlight due to their high-profile lifestyle and ventures in film production, fitness, and business.
Shilpa Shetty, a popular Bollywood actress and reality show judge, has largely stayed away from controversies. However, being named in this case marks a significant legal challenge for her as well.
Police Investigation Continues
Mumbai Police said the investigation is in an advanced stage. The EOW has reportedly questioned multiple individuals linked to the case and collected documents to substantiate the allegations.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether Shetty or Kundra will be summoned for questioning immediately. However, the LOC ensures that they remain within India until further notice.
The complainant has urged police to recover the lost money and initiate strict action. If proven, the case could lead to charges of cheating, fraud, and conspiracy under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and economic offences laws.
Industry Reaction and Legal Implications
The development has sparked discussions in Bollywood and business circles. Legal experts note that LOCs are typically issued in serious cases where investigators fear that the accused may attempt to evade proceedings.
“The LOC indicates that the police want to ensure the presence of the accused during investigation and trial,” said a senior lawyer.
For Shetty and Kundra, this could mean restrictions on professional commitments abroad until the case progresses.
Public and Media Scrutiny
Given their celebrity status, the case has attracted significant media attention. Social media is abuzz with reactions, with many debating whether high-profile personalities are treated differently in financial crime cases.
While the couple has not yet issued an official statement, their legal team is expected to challenge the allegations in court.