A fresh legal development has emerged from Mumbai's entertainment circles, this time involving the family of Bollywood actor Kunal Kemmu. A sessions court in the city has taken cognizance of a complaint filed by a film producer, which names Ravi Khemu, Kemmu's father, in an alleged case of cheating. The court has issued a formal notice to the Mumbai Police, directing them to respond to the allegations.
The Court's Directive and Producer's Allegations
The legal proceedings were initiated after the complainant, film producer Hasnain Sachak, approached the court. Sachak alleged that he was cheated by Ravi Khemu and another individual, identified as Shakeel. The core of the complaint revolves around a financial transaction related to a film project. According to the producer's submission, he paid a significant sum of money to Khemu and Shakeel for the rights to a movie. However, the deal allegedly fell through, and the money was not returned, leading to the cheating accusation.
Dissatisfied with the initial police response or lack thereof, Sachak filed a revision application in the sessions court. The court, presided over by Additional Sessions Judge A.M. Patil, examined the application. The court found merit in hearing the matter and subsequently issued a notice to the Senior Inspector of the Oshiwara Police Station. The police have been directed to file their reply or report concerning the complaint by the next hearing date, which is scheduled for January 29.
Background and Family Connection
Ravi Khemu is known in the film industry not just as the father of popular actor Kunal Kemmu, but also as a veteran actor himself with a career spanning several decades. He has appeared in numerous Hindi and Punjabi films. This legal issue brings his name into an unwanted spotlight, separate from his son's successful career. Kunal Kemmu, a well-known figure in Bollywood, has recently also gained acclaim for his directorial debut with the film Madgaon Express.
The case adds to a series of legal and financial disputes that occasionally surface in the Mumbai film industry, often involving agreements, partnerships, and funding. The court's decision to issue a notice indicates a judicial step to ensure the complaint is thoroughly investigated by the authorities. It places an onus on the police to present their stance on whether a cognizable offence is made out from the producer's claims.
Next Steps and Industry Implications
All parties involved will now await the police's submission to the court. The response from the Oshiwara Police will be crucial in determining the future course of this case. It will clarify whether they have registered an FIR based on the complaint or if they have reasons not to proceed with a formal investigation. The court will then decide on the basis of this report.
For the film fraternity, this case underscores the importance of clear contracts and documented agreements in financial dealings. While the matter is personal to Ravi Khemu and the complainant, it casts a light on the potential pitfalls in film production financing. As of now, neither Kunal Kemmu nor Ravi Khemu has made a public statement regarding the court's notice. The industry and fans alike will be watching for further updates as the January 29 hearing approaches.
