Mumbai Police Uncovers Rs 15 Crore Transfer from Raj Kundra to Shilpa Shetty's Company in Fraud Investigation

Raj Kundra has transferred approximately Rs 15 crore to Shilpa Shetty's company, according to recent findings.

The Mumbai Police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW) has uncovered significant information in their investigation into the alleged Rs 60 crore fraud case involving businessman Raj Kundra and actress Shilpa Shetty.

EOW sources have revealed that Kundra transferred approximately Rs 15 crore from the contested Rs 60 crore to a bank account belonging to a company owned by Shilpa Shetty.

The investigation centers around Best Deal TV Pvt Ltd, a defunct teleshopping venture that was launched by Shetty, Kundra, and actor Akshay Kumar. The company had been promoted as India's first celebrity-based shopping channel.

Investigators are currently examining the purpose behind the Rs 15 crore transaction. Officials have expressed concerns regarding the substantial amount, which they believe appears excessive for standard advertising services. Shilpa Shetty is expected to be summoned soon for questioning to clarify the nature of this payment and explain why such a large bill was issued by her company. Sources have confirmed that Raj Kundra may also be called in again for additional questioning by the end of the week.

The EOW has also disclosed that essential documents related to the investigation have not been provided by the appointed Resolution Professionals (RPs), who were previously called in for questioning.

Another significant discovery in the investigation suggests that the complainant, Deepak Kothari, a director at Lotus Capital Finance Services, was intentionally denied a 26% shareholding in the company. Sources indicate this may have been a strategic move to avoid mandatory reporting requirements to the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).

Investigators have also found evidence suggesting that portions of the Rs 60 crore may have been diverted to accounts of affiliated sister companies.

Previously, on September 15, the EOW recorded Raj Kundra's statement regarding the cheating case. An official stated that Kundra was questioned for over five hours at an undisclosed location to avoid media attention.

The official further mentioned, "We recorded Kundra's statement today (Monday) and will likely summon him again next week as many more witnesses need to be verified before the next round of interrogation."