A Mumbai court has rejected actor Ajaz Khan’s request for anticipatory bail in a rape case. Additional Sessions Judge Datta Dhobale denied Khan relief, stating that custodial interrogation was necessary given the nature and severity of the allegations.
Allegations Against Ajaz Khan
The prosecution alleged that Khan lured the victim into a relationship. The victim is also an actress. To gain her trust, Khan reportedly misused his status as a celebrity and reality show host. The FIR claims that Khan raped the victim multiple times under false pretenses of marriage, financial assistance, and career advancement.
Ajaz Khan’s Defense
Khan’s lawyer argued that his client was falsely implicated. The lawyer claimed that the victim knew Khan was already married and that their relationship was consensual. The defense presented WhatsApp chats and audio recordings to the court, allegedly showing that the victim demanded money to withdraw the case and that the relationship was consensual.
Prosecution’s Counterarguments
The prosecution countered that custodial interrogation of Khan was necessary. They argued that Khan has a criminal record and, if granted anticipatory bail, could tamper with evidence or influence the victim and witnesses.
Court’s Decision
After hearing both sides, the court ruled that Khan’s custody was necessary for further investigation, medical examination, and evidence collection. The court dismissed Khan’s plea, stating that granting anticipatory bail could lead to evidence tampering or witness intimidation.
Khan faces charges under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to rape and cheating.