Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt Under Police Scanner in Udaipur Fraud Case
Prominent Bollywood director Vikram Bhatt is now under official police investigation following the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against him in Udaipur. The case revolves around allegations of fraudulent activities connected to a film production deal. Bhatt has categorically denied all accusations, maintaining his innocence and suggesting that the Rajasthan Police is being deliberately misled.
Details of the Fraud Allegations and Contract
The FIR was formally lodged at the Bhupalpura police station by a complainant identified as Dr. Ajay Murdia from Udaipur. According to the legal filing, Dr. Murdia had entered into a formal agreement with Vikram Bhatt's production company. The project was intended to be a heartfelt tribute to his late wife, involving the production of several movies and documentaries.
The contractual agreement specified that the complainant would pay a significant sum to Bhatt's company for the production of four movies. However, Dr. Murdia alleges a serious breach of contract. He claims the production house failed to deliver on its promises. While two movies were reportedly completed, they were not properly attributed as per the agreement. Most notably, the production of the movie with the largest budget never even commenced.
Vikram Bhatt's Strong Denial and Counter-Arguments
In his response to the allegations, Vikram Bhatt presented a firm defense. He stated that he first learned about the FIR through a Rajasthan TV channel report and a subsequent copy sent by a journalist friend. After reviewing the document, Bhatt expressed his conviction that the Rajasthan Police is being misled.
Bhatt directly challenged the authenticity of the documents presented by the complainant. He questioned the logic behind the accusation, noting the alleged discrepancy between a supposed greed for 200 crores and an alleged scam of 30 crores. "If they have reported this to the police, then surely they must have some documents or paperwork. Otherwise, the police don't engage in such activities. So, if that is the case, then it is forged. It cannot be," Bhatt told ANI.
Highlighting his long-standing reputation in the industry, Bhatt asserted, "I have been in the industry for so many years. I had a conflict of interest with people. I had many good and bad relationships. But this has never happened." The filmmaker confirmed his intention to first seek concrete proof from the complainant regarding the FIR before deciding his next legal steps.
Ongoing Investigation and Professional Background
Superintendent of Police (SP) Udaipur, Yogesh Goyal, has confirmed that the investigation is currently active and proceeding. He assured that appropriate action would be taken based on the findings. The case remains under scrutiny at the Bhupalpura police station.
Vikram Bhatt, who began his film career at just 14 as an assistant to director Mukul Anand, has a substantial legacy in Indian cinema. He gained recognition for directing successful films like 'Ghulam' starring Aamir Khan. Since 2008, Bhatt has been particularly known for his work in the horror genre, delivering popular titles such as 1920, Shaapit, and Haunted - 3D, which continue to be available on major online streaming platforms.