Alia Bhatt’s Ex-Assistant Taken Into Custody on Allegations
In a startling incident that has sent ripples through the Bollywood community, Juhu police have arrested Vedika Prakash Shetty, the former personal assistant of actress Alia Bhatt, for allegedly defrauding her of a staggering Rs. 76.9 lakh. The fraudulent activities reportedly took place between May 2022 and August 2024, involving both Bhatt’s personal finances and her production company, Eternal Sunshine Productions Pvt Ltd. The case, initiated by Bhatt’s mother, Soni Razdan, has raised serious concerns about financial security for high-profile individuals.
Details of the Fraud
The complaint against Vedika Shetty was filed on January 23, 2025, leading to a formal investigation by the Juhu police. The authorities registered the case under sections related to criminal breach of trust and cheating. Investigators uncovered that Shetty had allegedly prepared fake invoices and inflated expense claims during her tenure from 2021 to 2024. These claims included costs for travel, meetings, and logistical arrangements, all of which were manipulated using professional-grade software to appear legitimate.
After securing Alia Bhatt’s signature on these documents, Shetty transferred the funds to an accomplice’s account, who then funneled the money back to her. This elaborate scheme highlights the vulnerabilities that even well-known personalities face regarding financial management and trust within their inner circles.
Arrest and Investigation
After nearly five months on the run, Vedika Shetty was located at her sister’s home in Bengaluru earlier this week. She was subsequently brought back to Mumbai under a transit warrant for further legal proceedings. Currently, she is in custody at the Juhu police station, where authorities are meticulously investigating her involvement in the fraudulent activities.
Police are also working to identify the accomplices who may have assisted Shetty in diverting the funds. Legal experts anticipate that Shetty will face charges under Sections 406 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating), along with potential violations of the Information Technology Act for the forgery of electronic documents.
Impact on Bollywood
The case has sent shockwaves throughout the Bollywood industry, prompting discussions about the need for enhanced internal controls and financial audits within personal management and production companies. The incident underscores the importance of robust verification processes for invoices and third-party payments, as many celebrities and businesses are now seeking advice from legal and financial experts to safeguard against similar threats.
As the investigation unfolds, the implications of this case may lead to significant changes in how financial matters are handled within the entertainment industry. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for internal deception, even among trusted aides, and the necessity for vigilance in financial oversight.
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