The Dindoshi Sessions Court in Mumbai has rejected the anticipatory bail application filed by noted car designer Dilip Chhabria in connection with an alleged cheating and misappropriation case involving Rs 53 lakh registered at the MIDC Police Station, officials said.
A case was filed against him under Section 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, based on a complaint lodged on June 15, 2026.
According to the complaint, Chhabria allegedly misappropriated Rs 53 lakh belonging to the complainant and his company, DC-2 Mercury Cars Pvt. Ltd., between 16 December 2024 and the date of the complaint.
The complainant alleged that the accused dishonestly retained the money and cheated him, prompting the police to register the case.
Defence calls it a business dispute
Seeking anticipatory bail, Chhabria's counsel argued that the dispute arose from business dealings between the parties.
The defence referred to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and a business transfer agreement executed between them, contending that the matter was civil and commercial in nature rather than criminal.
The defence further submitted that Chhabria had earlier filed two non-cognisable (NC) complaints against the complainant and alleged that attempts were being made to forcibly take possession of his business premises.
It was also argued that the 74-year-old designer suffers from health issues and is willing to cooperate fully with the investigation.
Prosecution seeks custodial interrogation
Opposing the plea, the prosecution argued that the allegations involve a serious economic offence and require a thorough investigation.
The prosecution submitted that the investigation is still at an early stage and that custodial interrogation is necessary to uncover the full extent of the alleged fraud.
An intervenor also opposed the bail application, claiming that Chhabria has criminal antecedents and has been involved in other economic offences.
Court cites seriousness of allegations
After hearing all parties, Additional Sessions Judge M.H. Pathan observed that there were prima facie specific allegations and overt acts attributed to Chhabria.
The court noted that sufficient material had emerged during the investigation and held that custodial interrogation was necessary considering the seriousness of the alleged offence.
Accordingly, the Dindoshi Sessions Court rejected Chhabria's anticipatory bail application.
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