FIR Filed Against Producers Over Alleged Fraud in Bollywood Film
Aarushi Nishank, the daughter of former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, has filed a First Information Report (FIR) against film producers Mansi Bagla and Varun Bagla. The complaint, lodged at the Kotwali police station in Dehradun, alleges that the producers defrauded her of ₹4 crores with false promises of a significant role in their upcoming film, Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, which stars Vikrant Massey and Shanaya Kapoor. This incident raises serious questions about the ethics of film financing and the treatment of aspiring actors in the industry.
Allegations of Fraud and Deception
According to the FIR, Aarushi Nishank claims that she was approached by Mansi and Varun Bagla with an investment opportunity in Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan. They allegedly requested an investment of ₹5 crores, promising her not only a prominent role in the film but also a share of the profits. On October 9, 2024, an MOU was signed between Aarushi’s company, Himshree Films, and the Baglas’ Mini Films. Following this agreement, Aarushi made several payments totaling ₹4 crores over a short period.
The complaint details that Aarushi was promised a 20% profit share, with expected returns of around ₹15 crores. Additionally, she was assured that she would have input on her character in the script. A clause in the agreement stated that if she was unhappy with her role, she would receive a refund along with 15% annual interest. However, her hopes were dashed when she discovered that the film’s shooting had concluded, and another actor had been cast in her place.
Disappointment and Allegations of Intimidation
Aarushi’s disappointment deepened when she attended a promotional event for Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan in Dehradun. She claims that during this event, the film’s team met with Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Aarushi alleges that the producers manipulated a photograph from the event, excluding her from the official company page. This exclusion, she argues, further demonstrates the deceitful nature of the Baglas.
In her complaint, Aarushi also mentions that she faced intimidation from the producers. She alleges that they threatened her with defamation and extortion if she pursued her claims. Furthermore, she claims that derogatory comments were made about her Garhwali background, adding a layer of personal attack to the alleged fraud. This situation highlights the challenges faced by individuals in the film industry, particularly those who may not have the same level of influence or connections.
Legal Action and Implications for the Producers
The FIR filed against Mansi and Varun Bagla includes several serious charges. They are booked under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including extortion, cheating, forgery, and criminal intimidation. These allegations could lead to significant legal repercussions for the producers, especially given the high-profile nature of the case.
Mansi and Varun Bagla are known for their previous work on the film Forensic (2022), which also featured Vikrant Massey. The current allegations could tarnish their reputation in the industry and impact future projects. As the investigation unfolds, it will be crucial to see how the legal system addresses these claims and what it means for the broader film community.
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