The Mumbai Police’s Economic Offences Wing (EOW) has issued a Lookout Notice against Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty and her husband, businessman Raj Kundra, in connection with a ₹60 crore fraud case. The development means the couple will not be able to leave the country without informing authorities, as immigration officials at all airports and ports have been alerted.
Allegations in the Case
According to police reports, the case stems from a complaint filed by an investor who alleged that Raj Kundra and Shilpa Shetty, along with others, were involved in cheating him of approximately ₹60 crore. The complainant claimed that the couple’s company and associates lured investors with promises of high returns through a fitness and wellness venture but later defaulted on payments.
The Economic Offences Wing has been investigating the matter under charges of cheating, criminal conspiracy, and breach of trust under the Indian Penal Code. Officials said that despite multiple summons, Kundra and Shetty have not cooperated with the investigation to the expected extent, leading to the issuance of the Lookout Notice.
Legal and Financial Troubles
Raj Kundra, a businessman who has previously faced scrutiny over alleged connections to the 2021 pornography-related case, is again under the scanner. Shilpa Shetty, a well-known Bollywood actress and entrepreneur, has not been named as a direct beneficiary in earlier controversies but is now implicated due to her role as a director in certain companies linked to the fraud allegations.
Sources indicate that investigators are examining financial transactions, company records, and agreements signed with investors. Forensic audits are also underway to trace the alleged diversion of funds.
What a Lookout Notice Means
A Lookout Notice (technically referred to as a Lookout Circular or LOC) is issued by law enforcement agencies to prevent individuals under investigation from leaving the country. Once issued, airports and immigration authorities are instructed to detain or prevent the individual from traveling abroad without prior clearance.
In this case, the notice against Shetty and Kundra signals the seriousness of the probe and indicates that police suspect the couple may attempt to evade questioning by traveling overseas.
Response from the Couple
So far, neither Shilpa Shetty nor Raj Kundra has issued an official public statement regarding the Lookout Notice. Their legal team is expected to challenge the move, arguing that the allegations are baseless and that they are being targeted unfairly.
Previously, Kundra has maintained that his business dealings are legitimate and that he has been wrongly accused in several instances. Shetty has largely kept her distance from legal controversies, focusing on her acting career, fitness brand, and television appearances.
Wider Implications
The case has drawn significant media attention due to the celebrity status of the couple. Legal experts note that the issuance of a Lookout Notice is not common in financial fraud cases unless investigators believe there is a risk of the accused fleeing the country.
If proven, the charges could lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and substantial financial liabilities. The case also highlights the rising number of high-value investment frauds reported in Mumbai and other metropolitan cities, where celebrities or public figures are sometimes linked to ventures that end up under legal scrutiny.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The EOW is expected to summon both Shetty and Kundra for further questioning in the coming weeks. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of arrests if the couple fails to cooperate with the investigation.
For now, the Lookout Notice ensures that the two remain within the jurisdiction of Indian law enforcement, allowing the probe to move forward without obstruction.