Bombay High Court's Staggering Mandate: Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra Face Rs 60 Crore Deposit to Travel Abroad

In a landmark decision that has sent ripples through both Bollywood and legal circles, the Bombay High Court has set an extraordinary condition for celebrity couple Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra to travel abroad. The court has mandated that the duo must deposit a staggering sum of Rs 60 crore if they wish to leave India, a ruling that underscores the gravity of ongoing financial investigations involving them.

The High Court’s directive emerged during a hearing where Shetty and Kundra sought permission for international travel, ostensibly for business and personal commitments.

This significant financial prerequisite is directly linked to the multi-crore alleged bitcoin scam, a case that has kept the couple under intense scrutiny for an extended period. The court's decision is seen as a measure to secure their presence within the country for further legal proceedings and to potentially cover any liabilities arising from the ongoing investigation.

Justice N.J.

Jamadar, presiding over the matter, emphasized the necessity of a substantial deposit, reflecting the magnitude of the alleged financial irregularities. The amount of Rs 60 crore is not merely a formality; it signifies the court's intent to ensure that justice is served and that no avenue for evasion is left open.

The couple's legal team is reportedly reviewing the order, with discussions undoubtedly focusing on how to navigate this challenging mandate.

This development adds another complex layer to the legal battles faced by Raj Kundra, who has previously been embroiled in controversies, including allegations related to the production and distribution of adult content.

While Shilpa Shetty has largely maintained that she was unaware of her husband's business dealings in previous cases, the current ruling, which names both of them, indicates a broader scope of investigation and potential culpability.

The impact of this order extends beyond the personal lives of Shetty and Kundra, sending a clear message about judicial oversight in high-profile financial cases.

It highlights the judiciary's commitment to holding individuals accountable, irrespective of their celebrity status. The decision has sparked widespread discussion on the balance between individual freedom of movement and the demands of legal processes, especially when large sums of public or investor money are at stake.

As the legal saga continues, all eyes will be on Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra's next steps.

The choice before them is clear: comply with the formidable financial requirement to exercise their right to international travel, or remain within India's borders as the investigations progress. This ruling not only reiterates the power of the Indian legal system but also serves as a stark reminder that even the most prominent figures are subject to its rigorous demands.