- Delhi Court Summons Dharmendra in Cheating Case
- Allegations Linked to Garam Dharam Dhaba Franchise
- Complainant Accuses Actor of Misleading Investment Promises
Bollywood Icon Faces Legal Scrutiny
Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, along with two others, has been summoned by a Delhi Court in a case involving allegations of cheating related to the Garam Dharam Dhaba franchise. The case was initiated following a complaint filed by a Delhi-based businessman who claimed he was lured into investing in the franchise under false promises.
Allegations and Summoning Order
The complaint accuses the trio of inducing the businessman to invest in the restaurant chain by misrepresenting its profitability. A magistrate, in the summoning order issued on December 5, stated, “The evidence on record prima facie indicates that the accused persons induced the complainant in furtherance of their common intent, and the ingredients of the offense of cheating are duly disclosed.” Dharmendra, formally named Dharam Singh Deol, and two co-accused have been summoned under sections 420 (cheating), 120B (criminal conspiracy), and 34 (common intent) of the Indian Penal Code. Additionally, the co-accused face charges under section 506 for criminal intimidation.
Court Proceedings and Key Evidence
The matter is scheduled for a further hearing on February 20, 2025. During the proceedings, the court emphasized that the purpose of summoning at this stage is to ascertain if a prima facie case exists. A detailed evaluation of the allegations’ merits will follow in due course.
The court also noted significant evidence tying the accused to the alleged misconduct. Documents submitted include a letter of intent bearing the Garam Dharam Dhaba logo, which suggests that the co-accused acted on Dharmendra’s behalf to secure the complainant’s investment.
The Businessman’s Complaint
The complainant, Sushil Kumar, represented by Advocate DD Pandey, claims that in April 2018, a co-accused approached him on behalf of Dharmendra, proposing a Garam Dharam Dhaba franchise on NH-24/NH-9 in Uttar Pradesh. Kumar alleges he was persuaded to invest in the franchise based on assurances of high profitability, citing monthly turnovers of Rs 70 to 80 lakh at existing branches in Connaught Place, Delhi, and Murthal, Haryana.
A Case to Watch
This case brings attention to the responsibilities of public figures and their business dealings. While the court has yet to determine guilt, the allegations have raised questions about the authenticity of claims made in franchise agreements. With the next hearing set for early 2025, all eyes will be on the legal proceedings and their implications for Dharmendra’s reputation.
(With inputs from agencies)
