Actress denies involvement in financial irregularities, files court petition
Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty has responded to media reports of an Income Tax Department investigation involving her Mumbai residence and the luxury restaurant “Bastian” in Bengaluru, which she co-owns.
According to sources, the Income Tax Department conducted raids at both locations as part of an investigation into financial transactions and alleged tax irregularities. Department teams reportedly examined documents related to the restaurant’s income and investments. Some reports have also linked the action to a financial fraud case from nine years ago involving Shetty and her husband, Raj Kundra.
Shetty Denies Allegations
In an official statement, Shetty categorically denied the allegations and expressed concern about being dragged into the investigation. She clarified that her involvement with the company was strictly non-executive, with no participation in operational, financial, or decision-making matters.
“My association with the company was purely non-executive, with no role in operations, finance, or decision-making,” Shetty stated. She noted that her professional involvement was limited to endorsing products for a home shopping channel, adding that outstanding payments for these endorsements remain unpaid.
The actress revealed that her family provided a loan of approximately Rs 20 crore to the company, which has not been repaid to date.
Legal Action and Broader Concerns
Shetty criticized the timing and basis of the investigation, characterizing the reopening of a nine-year-old case as “legally unacceptable” and damaging to her reputation. She emphasized that such allegations not only distort facts but also harm the dignity and reputation of the individuals involved.
Drawing from spiritual principles, Shetty referenced the Bhagavad Gita in her statement: “When it is your duty to oppose injustice, and you fail to do so, that in itself is unrighteousness.”
In response to the developments, Shetty has filed a quashing petition with the Bombay High Court, seeking to challenge the investigation’s validity. She expressed confidence in the judicial process and appealed to media outlets to verify facts before reporting, urging responsible journalism.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains under way, with authorities continuing their examination. The case has drawn significant public attention and raised questions about the basis for reopening investigations into matters dating back nearly a decade.
Shetty’s statement underscores her commitment to clearing her name through legal channels while maintaining her position of non-involvement in the financial irregularities being investigated.
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