Actor Ajaz Khan has been denied anticipatory bail by a Mumbai court in a rape case that has stirred considerable attention. The Dindoshi sessions court, under Judge Datta Dhoble, delivered its verdict on Thursday, firmly declining Khan’s request for relief.
The case was filed by a fellow actor, who alleged that Khan lured her into a relationship under false promises. According to the FIR, he assured her of marriage, financial support, and help with her career. These promises, allegedly deceitful, were used to build physical relations multiple times, the complaint stated. The victim maintained that these encounters lacked her unconditional and willing consent.
Khan has been charged under several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, addressing crimes involving sexual assault and deceitful means to obtain physical relations. In court, Khan’s defence team argued that he had been wrongfully accused. His lawyer stated the complainant knew of Khan’s marital status and insisted their relationship had been consensual, adding, “Both are majors, and there was mutual agreement in the relationship.”
The defence also presented digital evidence during the hearing. They produced WhatsApp chats and audio clips, allegedly indicating that the complainant had demanded money to withdraw the case. These were cited as proof suggesting that the physical relationship wasn’t forced but mutual.
However, the prosecution maintained that Khan’s custody was critical for investigation. They sought access to his mobile phone, verification of chat records, and call details. Officials further raised concerns that Khan’s prior criminal history made him a potential threat to evidence and witnesses. They argued he might interfere with the investigation if granted anticipatory bail.
After considering both sides, the court highlighted that the FIR detailed specific dates, places, and situations surrounding the alleged incidents. The judge noted that the information given in the FIR was too serious to be dismissed as a simple consensual relationship matter. The court stated, “Prima facie, this cannot be brushed aside as a simple case of consensual relationship. The consent appears to be obtained by fraud or under misrepresentation of facts.”
It further emphasized that although the complainant is an adult, the circumstances suggested that her consent wasn’t completely free and voluntary as per the legal standards. Judge Dhoble explained that Khan’s custody was necessary for multiple reasons, including his medical examination and the recovery of potential digital evidence.
The court also expressed concerns about the possibility of Khan tampering with evidence or attempting to influence witnesses. “The risk of tampering with evidence or influencing witnesses cannot be ruled out, if the pre-arrest bail is granted,” it ruled.
This isn’t the first time Ajaz Khan has faced legal trouble. Previously, he was among several individuals booked for allegedly producing obscene content in a web series titled House Arrest. That matter, too, had drawn attention, although unrelated to the current case.
