Digital News Guru Rajasthan Desk:
In a significant legal setback for veteran filmmaker Vikram Bhatt and his wife Shwetambari Bhatt, an Udaipur court has once again denied their bail plea in connection with a high-profile Rs 30 crore fraud case, marking the second time the couple’s request for release has been rejected.
Court Rejects Bail for the Second Time
On December 24, 2025, a district court in Udaipur, Rajasthan, dismissed the bail applications of both Vikram and Shwetambari Bhatt, emphasising that the investigation into the alleged financial irregularities and fraud is still at a “sensitive and crucial stage.” The court asserted that granting bail now could impede the ongoing probe, which may involve further arrests and extensive questioning of witnesses and suspects.
This marks the second consecutive denial of bail for the couple. Their first plea was rejected earlier in December when they sought interim bail on medical grounds, which the court also turned down.
Rs 30 crore fraud case involving filmmaker Vikram Bhatt and his wife Shwetambari Bhatt
The case stems from a complaint filed by Dr Ajay Murdia, a Udaipur-based IVF specialist and founder of the Indira Group of Companies. Dr Murdia alleges that he was duped of approximately Rs 30 crore by the Bhatt couple and several associates in connection with promises of film investments that never materialised.
According to the FIR registered at the Bhopalpura police station in Udaipur, Dr Murdia was persuaded to invest substantial funds into what were purported to be film projects — including a biopic of his late wife — with assurances of earnings as high as Rs 200 crore. None of the promised profits or films reportedly came to fruition, prompting him to file a legal complaint alleging cheating and financial misappropriation.
Arrest and Custody
The couple was arrested on December 7, 2025, from their Mumbai residence after Dr Murdia’s complaint led to police action. Following their arrest, the Rajasthan Police secured a transit remand and brought the Bhatt couple to Udaipur for further questioning. They were first placed in police custody and have since been remanded to judicial custody, where they remain as the probe continues.
Alongside the Bhatts, co-producer Mehboob Ansari and a vendor identified as Sandeep were also arrested earlier in connection with the case. Authorities are reportedly scrutinising financial transactions, agreements and communications linked to the alleged investment scheme as part of the investigation.
Court’s Rationale and Ongoing Investigation
In its bail order, the Udaipur court highlighted the seriousness of the charges and noted that the probe is ongoing and extensive. It reasoned that releasing the accused during the investigation could potentially hamper further inquiries, including the examination of financial records and depositions from witnesses.
Legal experts say that in cases involving large-scale fraud, courts often adopt a cautious approach when granting bail, particularly while investigations are still underway. The denial reflects the judiciary’s intent to ensure thorough fact-finding before considering conditional release.
Bhatt’s Response and Public Silence
Despite repeated bail denials and the ongoing legal drama, neither Vikram Bhatt nor Shwetambari Bhatt has issued an official statement addressing the allegations or their current detention status. According to some earlier media reports, the filmmaker has expressed in private comments that he believes police may have been misled in the case, but no formal public rebuttal has been filed in court.
Industry Reaction and Ramifications
The case has generated widespread attention not only because of the high monetary value involved but also due to Vikram Bhatt’s status as a well-known figure in the Indian film industry. With credits spanning decades and several successful films to his name, Bhatt’s legal troubles have sparked conversations across Bollywood and entertainment circles.
The allegations also serve as a reminder of increased scrutiny on investment practices associated with film financing — a domain where funds often move across complex contractual arrangements and investor expectations. Cases of alleged fraud in the entertainment sector tend to influence public sentiment and raise questions about transparency and accountability in film financing.
What Comes Next?
With the court firmly rejecting their bail applications, the Bhatt couple will remain in judicial custody as the investigation continues. Prosecutors and police are expected to carry on with questioning, examining financial trails and possibly pursuing additional arrests or charges if deemed necessary.
Legal observers suggest that any future bail application would likely depend on the status of the investigation, the filing of a charge sheet, or a shift in how the evidence unfolds in court. At this point, the case appears far from over, and further developments — whether legal motions or investigative breakthroughs — are anticipated in the coming weeks.
You May Also Read: Jayshree Ullal: Indian-Origin Tech Leader, topping the Hurun India Rich List 2025, Surpassing Sundar Pichai & Satya Nadella
