Nora Fatehi’s Role in Sukesh Chandrashekhar Case Faces Close Examination Ahead of Cross-Examination
Nora Fatehi made a notable appearance at the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi on Wednesday, serving as a prosecution witness in the ongoing case against Sukesh Chandrashekhar, led by the Delhi Police Economic Offences Wing (EOW). Her presence before Additional Sessions Judge Gagandeep Singh followed two prior summons from the court. Previously, Fatehi had requested an exemption from attending, which led to the court expressing its displeasure, reminding her, “Don’t take the court for granted.” The proceedings faced delays on Wednesday until she arrived.
Fatehi’s Testimony and Defense Challenges
During her testimony, Fatehi reiterated her claim of being engaged as an artist for a charity event in Chennai back in December 2020, asserting that she did not receive any payment for her participation. However, the defense team has raised questions about her account, referencing earlier statements she made to investigating agencies regarding a luxury handbag, a phone, and a BMW car allegedly connected to the same event.
The defense argues that these elements have yet to be scrutinized through cross-examination, and they intend to address these points during the ongoing proceedings. The unfolding legal battle continues to reveal complexities surrounding Fatehi’s involvement and the claims made by both sides.
Legal Implications for Witnesses
Fatehi’s legal team has emphasized that she is appearing solely as a witness in this case. In response, the defense has invoked Section 319 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), which allows a trial court to take action against an individual, including a witness, if evidence suggests their involvement in a crime.
Advocate Anant Malik, representing Sukesh Chandrashekhar, stated, “Nobody disputes that Ms. Fatehi has been summoned as a witness. But a summons is not a certificate of innocence, and it is certainly not a licence to treat the Court’s time as optional. The Hon’ble Court itself had to remind her not to take it for granted. What the public has heard today is a handful of rehearsed lines. Cross-examination is where that story will be tested.” He further asserted that if evidence indicates a more significant role for Fatehi than she admits, the defense will seek appropriate legal action in accordance with the law.
The defense has expressed confidence in the judicial process, stating that their arguments will be substantiated through evidence and cross-examination. This statement was released by Advocate Anant Malik’s office, who is representing Chandrashekhar in this high-profile case.
