Mumbai’s legal circles are buzzing once again over the high-profile rape case against veteran actor Aditya Pancholi. In a firm stance during recent proceedings, the Bombay High Court dismissed Pancholi’s plea to quash the FIR registered against him, instead directing police to issue yet another notice to the complainant actress.
The court was informed that despite 11 prior summons, the actress has repeatedly failed to appear before investigators to record her statement. Justice expressed visible frustration, emphasizing that her presence is mandatory at the next hearing scheduled for February 24.
The allegations stem from incidents allegedly occurring between 2004 and 2009, when Pancholi purportedly drugged the actress during her early career days in Bollywood, sexually assaulted her, and subjected her to prolonged blackmail using private photos. The FIR was lodged at Versova Police Station in Andheri West, detailing years of physical and mental torment.
Pancholi’s legal team has vehemently denied all claims, labeling them as fabricated and motivated by personal vendetta. They argue the complaint, filed well beyond the statute of limitations, lacks merit and was strategically timed for ulterior motives.
As the case unfolds, it highlights persistent issues of power dynamics and delayed justice in the entertainment industry. The upcoming hearing could prove pivotal, potentially forcing the actress’s testimony or leading to further judicial scrutiny of the evidence.
This development keeps the spotlight on Pancholi, whose career has seen both acclaim and controversy, reminding the public of the complexities in pursuing long-pending sexual assault claims.