Jubilant Bhartia Group Chairman Shyam Sunder Bhartia Rape Case Denies
The recent allegations against Shyam Sunder Bhartia, founder and chairman of the Jubilant Bhartia Group, have garnered significant attention in both India and the United States. On February 22, 2025, the Kapurbawadi police in Thane registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Bhartia and three others, following a directive from the Bombay High Court.
The charges include multiple counts of rape, criminal intimidation, and offenses under the Atrocities Act, as reported by The Indian Express.
The complainant, a 34-year-old aspiring actress, alleges that she was introduced to Bhartia on May 3, 2023, at a five-star hotel in Santacruz, Mumbai. She claims that Bhartia invited her to accompany him to Singapore, providing his card details for ticket booking. According to the FIR, on May 19, 2023, she traveled to Singapore with co-accused Puja Kanwaljit Singh.
There, at a private residence, she alleges that she was coerced into consuming alcohol and was subsequently sexually assaulted by Bhartia, while Singh recorded the incident. The complainant further alleges that she was threatened with the release of the video if she reported the incident. She also claims that similar assaults occurred in Andheri and Thane on June 26, 2023, and October 14, 2023, respectively.
The complainant initially approached the Thane police in November 2024, but when no FIR was registered, she petitioned the Bombay High Court. On February 18, 2025, the court directed the police to file an FIR, leading to its registration on February 22. The court emphasized that the police should investigate the case on its own merits, without any preconceived notions.
Given the gravity of the allegations, the investigation has been transferred to the Crime Branch of the Thane police. This move aims to ensure a thorough and impartial probe. The complainant has also sought police protection, expressing concerns about her safety. Her legal representative, Sofiya Shaikh, has indicated plans to approach the High Court regarding the lack of security provided to her client.
Response from Shyam Sunder Bhartia and Jubilant Bhartia Group
In response to the allegations, Bhartia has categorically denied any wrongdoing. In a statement to the Bombay Stock Exchange, Jubilant FoodWorks, a subsidiary of the Jubilant Bhartia Group, conveyed Bhartia’s position.
He described the allegations as “baseless, false, and disparaging,” asserting that they were made with clear malicious intent. Bhartia has expressed his willingness to cooperate fully with the investigation and has requested that his family’s privacy be respected during this period. The company further assured stakeholders that these developments have no material impact on its operations.
Implications for Jubilant Bhartia Group
The Jubilant Bhartia Group, under Bhartia’s leadership, has established a significant presence in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, food services, and performance polymers. The allegations against its founder come at a time when the group has been expanding its footprint both domestically and internationally.
While the company maintains that the current legal proceedings will not affect its operations, stakeholders and market analysts are closely monitoring the situation for any potential repercussions.
Legal Perspective and Next Steps
The transfer of the investigation to the Crime Branch underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are approaching the case. The inclusion of charges under the Atrocities Act indicates that the complainant has alleged offenses related to caste-based discrimination, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
Legal experts note that such cases require meticulous investigation, given the high-profile nature of the accused and the severity of the allegations.
As the investigation progresses, the Crime Branch is expected to gather evidence, record statements, and possibly summon the accused for questioning. The complainant’s plea for protection highlights the challenges faced by individuals pursuing legal action against influential figures. Ensuring her safety and addressing her concerns will be crucial for the integrity of the judicial process.
The allegations against Bhartia have sparked widespread media coverage, reflecting the public’s interest in cases involving prominent personalities. Discussions on social media platforms and news outlets have been polarized, with opinions ranging from calls for a fair trial to expressions of support for the complainant.
This case has also reignited conversations about the challenges faced by individuals alleging misconduct against powerful figures, emphasizing the need for a justice system that is both impartial and accessible.
Also Read: Court Orders FIR Against Shyam Sundar Bhartia in Rape Case
In Conclusion, The case against Shyam Sunder Bhartia is in its early stages, with the investigation ongoing. As events unfold, it will be imperative for the authorities to conduct a thorough and unbiased investigation, ensuring justice for all parties involved.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications, not only for the individuals directly involved but also for broader societal perceptions of accountability and justice in cases involving influential personalities.
Sources: indianexpress.com, deccanchronicle.com
