New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Friday refused to set a specific timeline for completing the trial in the Shraddha Walkar murder case against accused Aaftab Amin Poonawala, noting that proceedings in the case are already being conducted on a day-to-day basis. The court was hearing a petition filed by Walkar's brother seeking directions for an early conclusion of the trial. Justice Madhu Jain observed that the trial court was already making efforts to complete the proceedings as quickly as possible and therefore no additional directions were required at this stage. The petition had sought the High Court's intervention to ensure that the trial, which has remained under close public attention, reaches its conclusion without unnecessary delay.

During the hearing, Justice Jain took note of the manner in which proceedings were being conducted before the trial court. The High Court observed that the lower court was making “every endeavour” to conclude the matter at the earliest and that hearings were already taking place on a daily basis. In view of this, the court found no reason to impose a separate deadline. “It is clear that the trial court is making every endeavour to conclude the trial as soon as possible. No further directions are required as the trial is going on a day to day basis,” Justice Jain said. The observation effectively means that the existing pace of proceedings will continue without a High Court-mandated date by which the trial must be completed.

The petition had been moved by Shraddha Walkar's brother with the objective of securing an early conclusion to the proceedings against Aaftab Amin Poonawala. However, the High Court's order makes clear that it is satisfied, for now, with the steps being taken by the trial court. Rather than setting a fixed deadline, Justice Jain allowed the day-to-day trial process to continue. The material provided does not specify how many witnesses have been examined so far, how much evidence remains to be recorded or when the trial court is expected to deliver its final decision. With the High Court declining to issue further directions, the focus will remain on the ongoing proceedings before the trial court and its efforts to bring the case to a conclusion at the earliest possible stage.

The Delhi High Court on Monday directed the makers to pull the film's teaser and related promotional material from every online platform within 24 hours, ruling on an application in Khan's ongoing personality rights suit. Justice Jyoti Singh said a person's reputation is "built with great effort, and once lost, is lost forever," warning that platforms including X, YouTube, Meta and Google would be ordered to execute the takedown themselves if the makers failed to comply in time. The court was notably critical of producer Amit Jani's conduct during proceedings, with Justice Singh remarking that he seemed to think he was "above the law" and was "only getting worse day by day."

Khan's case centres on his contention that the teaser and posters make him instantly identifiable without ever naming him — featuring a lookalike wearing his signature Firoza bracelet, holding a rifle, and drawing directly on his 1998 blackbuck poaching case. His legal team argued the film falsely implies underworld links and could prejudice ongoing proceedings, since aspects of the original blackbuck case remain pending before the Rajasthan High Court and Supreme Court. Counsel for Khan told the court there was "nothing left to the imagination" in the teaser, arguing it was "completely about" the actor, and pointed out he had already been acquitted in three of the four original criminal cases tied to the incident.

Responding to the order, the filmmakers said they respected the court process but believed the underlying legal question — over how far personality rights can restrict a film inspired by real events — deserved to be tested at the highest level. In a statement, the production side said they had decided to approach the Supreme Court to seek appropriate legal remedies, adding they had complete faith in the Indian judiciary to deliver justice in line with the Constitution and the law.

Monday's ruling built on an earlier December 2025 order in the same suit, in which Khan sought a permanent injunction protecting his personality and publicity rights, citing unauthorised use of his name, photographs, film stills and likeness — including AI-generated content — without his consent. That order had already directed platforms to treat Khan's complaints under India's IT Rules and act against unauthorised use of his image and voice.

With the makers now preparing a Supreme Court challenge, the case is shaping up as a significant test of how India's courts balance a filmmaker's creative latitude against a public figure's personality rights — particularly where a film draws heavily on a living person's real, contested legal history without naming them directly.

The Supreme Court on Monday observed that peaceful protest is a constitutionally protected right and said the police cannot resort to a lathicharge merely because people are demonstrating. The remarks came while hearing a batch of petitions alleging excessive police force against students protesting examination paper leaks during the Parliament march held on July 20.

A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohan said allegations of police excess should be independently examined. The court also stressed the need for uniform national guidelines governing police action during public demonstrations, observing that discipline is essential in a democracy but peaceful protests must remain protected.

The observations assume significance as the Centre prepares to push the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 in Parliament, a legislation aimed at strengthening anti-paper leak laws following the nationwide NEET controversy.

Court Questions Police Response

During the hearing, the Bench underlined that agitation alone cannot justify the use of force by law enforcement agencies.

The judges noted that every allegation of excessive police action deserves impartial scrutiny and suggested that uniform operating procedures should be evolved for handling demonstrations across the country. According to the court, maintaining public order and protecting citizens' constitutional rights must go hand in hand.

Parliament March Turned Violent

The petitions relate to the July 20 Parliament march organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) over the alleged NEET paper leak.

The protest began at Jantar Mantar and later moved towards Parliament, with demonstrators marching through Parliament Street, Janpath Crossing, Kartavya Path and Vijay Chowk.

According to reports, clashes erupted after some protesters allegedly breached police barricades and attempted to move towards Parliament. Police responded with tear gas and lathicharge, while incidents of stone-pelting were also reported. More than 100 people, including police personnel and protesters, were reportedly injured during the violence.

The protest site was cleared by evening, although demonstrators returned later that night to resume their agitation.

Matter Reached Supreme Court Multiple Times

The issue has come before the Supreme Court on several occasions over the past two months.

In May, a petition sought a CBI investigation into those associated with the Cockroach Janta Party. The court declined urgent listing, observing there was no immediate emergency.

After the July 20 protest, another petition sought an inquiry into the alleged police assault on demonstrators. At that stage, the Bench declined immediate intervention, stating that it was not relying on video clips placed before it.

A fresh plea was later filed seeking restraint on police action against students participating in protests. The court agreed to hear the matter through the regular listing process.

During Monday's proceedings, the Chief Justice also clarified that reports claiming the court had earlier refused to hear petitions on the issue were inaccurate. He said no formal writ petition had been before the Bench at that stage.

Delhi High Court Also Hearing Case

Separate petitions challenging the police action are also pending before the Delhi High Court.

The High Court has already sought responses from the Union government and Delhi Police while directing authorities to preserve CCTV footage, videography and all records related to the July 20 protest.

Background

The student-led agitation over alleged examination paper leaks continued for 36 days before ending on July 25 following the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Pradhan resigned amid mounting pressure over the NEET paper leak controversy, saying recent developments had deeply saddened him.

Social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been observing a hunger strike alongside protesting students, also ended his fast after receiving assurances from the government regarding examination reforms.

The Supreme Court's observations now place fresh focus on balancing citizens' right to peaceful protest with the state's responsibility to maintain law and order, even as Parliament prepares to debate tougher legislation against examination malpractices.

Social activist Anna Hazare on Thursday extended his support to students protesting over alleged examination irregularities by beginning a silent protest in Maharashtra's Ahilya Nagar. The veteran activist also wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging attention to the concerns being raised by students across the country.

Hazare's intervention comes as protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) continue at Delhi's Jantar Mantar over the alleged NEET paper leak and demands for accountability in the education system. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear a public interest litigation (PIL) on Friday seeking action over the prolonged protest, claiming it has severely disrupted normal life in the national capital.

Anna Hazare Extends Support

Anna Hazare, known for leading several public movements, observed a silent fast in Ahilya Nagar in solidarity with protesting students.

According to people associated with the protest, Hazare believes the concerns of students deserve immediate attention from the country's leadership. In his letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he stated that as the nation's highest elected leader, it was important for the government to directly address public grievances and restore students' confidence in the education system.

His support has added a new dimension to the ongoing nationwide debate surrounding examination transparency and accountability.

Delhi High Court to Hear Petition

The Delhi High Court will hear a PIL on Friday challenging the ongoing protest at Jantar Mantar.

The petitioner has argued that the prolonged demonstrations have disrupted daily life in the capital, with several roads remaining closed and commuters facing significant inconvenience. The plea seeks appropriate directions regarding the continuation of the protest while balancing citizens' right to free movement.

The matter is expected to be heard by a Bench led by Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya.

Protest Continues at Jantar Mantar

Thousands of protesters gathered once again at Jantar Mantar on Thursday as the CJP-led agitation entered its 32nd day.

Demonstrators continued to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and stricter action against those responsible for examination paper leaks.

The protest site witnessed heavy police deployment to maintain law and order as large crowds assembled throughout the day.

Volunteers arranged food, drinking water and tea for protesters, while sanitation teams collected garbage from the demonstration site to maintain cleanliness.

Fresh Allegations Surface

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke alleged that individuals associated with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party had infiltrated the protest and were attempting to provoke violence by pelting stones at demonstrators.

The allegations have not been independently verified, and there has been no immediate official response from the BJP regarding the claims.

Earlier this week, protests witnessed clashes between demonstrators and police, leaving several people, including security personnel, injured.

Timeline of the Protest

The agitation has witnessed several significant developments over the past three days.

On July 20, thousands of protesters marched towards Parliament demanding action over the alleged paper leak, following which clashes broke out between police and demonstrators during the "Sansad Chalo" march.

On July 21, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke stated that the protest would continue until the government initiated direct dialogue with student representatives and accepted their key demands.

On July 22, environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk said he was prepared to end his hunger strike if the government assured that no punitive action would be taken against students participating in peaceful protests.

Political Heat Intensifies

The alleged NEET paper leak has evolved into a major political issue, with opposition parties repeatedly targeting the Centre over examination irregularities and demanding greater accountability.

The government, however, has maintained that investigations are underway and has announced fast-track courts to ensure speedy trials in paper leak cases.

The continuing protests, legal proceedings and political exchanges indicate that the controversy is likely to remain at the centre of public debate in the coming weeks. With the Delhi High Court set to hear the matter and student groups refusing to withdraw their agitation, all eyes will be on the government's next steps and the court's observations.

Social activist and environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted from Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram on Tuesday evening following directions from the Delhi High Court. Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for several weeks, was admitted directly to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where a team of specialist doctors has begun his treatment under continuous medical supervision.

The transfer took place under tight security after the High Court permitted Wangchuk to receive treatment at the hospital of his choice. An ambulance carrying him reached Medanta at around 7:28 pm, following his discharge from Safdarjung Hospital earlier in the evening.

High Court Upholds Right to Choose Hospital

The Delhi High Court passed the order after hearing a petition filed by Wangchuk's wife, Geetanjali Angmo, who sought permission for his transfer to Medanta, citing the need for advanced medical care.

The court observed that every citizen has the constitutional right to receive treatment at a hospital of their choice, referring to the protections guaranteed under Articles 19 and 21 of the Constitution. It directed Safdarjung Hospital to complete all necessary formalities and facilitate Wangchuk's immediate transfer.

The court also instructed Medanta Hospital to constitute a team of specialist doctors to monitor his condition round the clock and ensure treatment in accordance with established medical protocols.

Health Under Close Monitoring

According to hospital officials, Wangchuk was formally discharged from Safdarjung Hospital at around 6:40 pm. His complete medical records, investigation reports, and treatment history were handed over to the Medanta medical team to ensure continuity of care.

Doctors stated that although his vital signs were stable at the time of discharge, he continues to suffer from pancytopenia, a condition involving a significant reduction in blood cell counts. Medical examinations also indicated that his potassium levels were slightly below normal, requiring close monitoring and appropriate treatment.

Upon arrival at Medanta, Wangchuk was admitted to ICU-8 on the hospital's second floor. His treatment is being supervised by Dr. Sushila Kataria, Chairperson of Internal Medicine, along with a multidisciplinary team of specialists.

Hunger Strike Continues

According to available information, Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike since 28 June, raising concerns related to alleged examination irregularities and broader issues in the education system.

His prolonged fast led to a gradual deterioration in his health, prompting his admission to Safdarjung Hospital before his family approached the High Court for permission to shift him to a private medical facility.

Medical experts continue to closely assess his condition while deciding further treatment based on his response to ongoing care.

Security Tightened Around Hospital

Following Wangchuk's arrival, Gurugram Police strengthened security arrangements around Medanta Hospital.

Additional police personnel have been deployed inside and outside the hospital premises, while access to sensitive areas is being closely monitored to prevent any untoward incidents. Officials said security measures have been enhanced considering the public attention surrounding Wangchuk's health and ongoing movement.

National Attention on Wangchuk's Health

Sonam Wangchuk has been widely recognised for his work in environmental conservation, education reform, and issues concerning Ladakh. His campaigns have attracted nationwide attention over the years.

His ongoing hunger strike has once again placed him at the centre of public debate, with political leaders, civil society groups, and supporters closely monitoring his health and treatment.

The Delhi High Court's intervention has ensured that he receives treatment at his preferred medical facility, while doctors continue to monitor his condition in the ICU.

The Delhi High Court on Tuesday allowed environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk to be shifted from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital, observing that all parties were in agreement regarding the need for continuous medical supervision. The court said its detailed order would be issued later in the day after the post-lunch session.

The development comes amid the ongoing nationwide attention surrounding Wangchuk's detention, health condition, and the protests being held in his support. His supporters have been demanding better medical care and greater transparency regarding his treatment.

Court Approves Hospital Transfer

During the hearing, the Delhi High Court noted that there was no disagreement over Wangchuk's continued medical monitoring and approved his transfer to Medanta Hospital. The court stated that the final written order would be released after lunch, formalising the arrangement.

The transfer is expected to ensure specialized medical care while addressing concerns raised by Wangchuk's legal team regarding his health.

Protest at Jantar Mantar Continues

Meanwhile, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) continued its protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, with the demonstration entering its 24th consecutive day.

Supporters have been demanding action over Wangchuk's detention and calling for the protection of democratic rights. Protesters continued their sit-in despite heightened security arrangements in the national capital.

Congress Leaders Visit Injured Protesters

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, accompanied by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal, visited RML Hospital to meet protesters injured during Monday's police action.

The Congress leaders interacted with those receiving treatment and criticized the handling of the demonstrations. The visit further intensified the political debate surrounding the protests and the government's response.

PM Modi on NEET Paper Leak

Separately, at the NDA Parliamentary Party meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the NEET paper leak as a "grave sin" and assured strict action against those responsible.

The Prime Minister emphasized that those involved would face punishment while urging political parties not to politicize the issue. He stressed the need to protect the credibility of India's examination system.

Rahul Gandhi Demands Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation

Reacting to the NEET controversy, Rahul Gandhi demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, holding the government accountable for repeated examination irregularities.

Gandhi also stated that both the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister should take responsibility for the alleged failures that allowed examination leaks to occur.

The NEET paper leak has become a major political issue, with opposition parties accusing the government of failing to ensure transparent and fair competitive examinations for millions of students.

As Wangchuk's medical transfer proceeds under the High Court's supervision, the protests and the political confrontation over democratic rights and examination reforms are expected to remain at the center of national attention.

The Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear a petition filed by Dr. Gitanjali Angmo, wife of environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, at 2:30 pm on Sunday. The plea seeks permission to shift Wangchuk from Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital to a private medical facility, claiming that he is being kept in the government hospital against his wishes despite repeated requests from his family.

The hearing comes as Wangchuk continues his indefinite hunger strike, which began on 28 June, demanding accountability over the alleged NEET paper leak and seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Wife Alleges Forced Hospitalisation

In her petition before the High Court, Dr. Angmo has alleged that Wangchuk is effectively under detention in the hospital under the pretext of medical treatment. She stated that the family has lost confidence in the medical care being provided at Safdarjung Hospital and wants him shifted to a private hospital of their choice.

According to the plea, despite repeated representations, hospital authorities have neither discharged the activist nor permitted his transfer. The petition argues that Wangchuk's continued stay at the government hospital is against his wishes and raises concerns about his personal liberty and medical autonomy.

Safdarjung Hospital Says Condition Stable

Responding to the controversy, Safdarjung Hospital issued a medical bulletin on Sunday morning stating that Wangchuk is receiving appropriate treatment under the supervision of a multidisciplinary team.

According to the hospital, his vital signs remain stable, although certain blood parameters continue to show mild abnormalities due to the prolonged fast. Doctors said the activist requires continuous medical monitoring because extended fasting can place severe physiological stress on the body.

The hospital also noted that Wangchuk has refused intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solution (ORS), and medication, making close medical supervision essential.

Wangchuk Calls Parliament March 'India's Second Freedom Movement'

Amid the legal proceedings, Wangchuk released a handwritten message through his wife on social media platform X, urging supporters to make the planned Parliament march on 20 July a success.

Describing the campaign as "India's second freedom movement," Wangchuk appealed to citizens to unite against what he called injustice, fear, paper leaks and the alleged misuse of power. The note was reportedly written from Safdarjung Hospital, where he referred to his stay as an "illegal detention."

The activist's appeal has intensified political attention around the protest, with supporters preparing to participate in the march during the opening of Parliament's Monsoon Session.

Hunger Strike Continues Amid Growing Attention

Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite fast for over three weeks, maintaining that his protest is aimed at ensuring greater accountability in public institutions and highlighting concerns over examination irregularities.

His deteriorating health, coupled with the legal battle over his treatment and continued hospitalisation, has drawn widespread attention from civil society groups and political observers. The outcome of Sunday's High Court hearing is expected to determine whether Wangchuk can be shifted to a private medical facility while continuing his protest.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday after completing 20 days of an indefinite hunger strike, following growing concerns over his deteriorating health and directions from the Delhi High Court.

Police escorted Wangchuk from the protest site at Jantar Mantar for medical treatment after doctors warned that his condition had worsened due to prolonged fasting.

Hospital Shift Follows High Court Directions

The move came two days after the Delhi High Court directed authorities to conduct daily medical examinations of Wangchuk, observing that "the life of any citizen is precious."

The court instructed officials to ensure regular health monitoring and provide necessary medical intervention if his condition continued to decline.

According to Delhi Police, the decision to hospitalise Wangchuk was taken based on expert medical advice and in compliance with the High Court's order.

Police Clear Protest Site

Following Wangchuk's transfer to the hospital, police began clearing protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar.

A brief commotion broke out as some demonstrators attempted to obstruct the police action. However, officials said the operation was carried out with restraint and without major incident.

In a statement posted on X, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) said authorities had safely shifted Wangchuk for essential medical care and appealed to remaining protesters to vacate the protest site peacefully.

Health Condition Raises Concern

Medical bulletins issued over the past several days had repeatedly highlighted Wangchuk's declining health.

Doctors reported that he had lost more than eight kilograms since beginning his hunger strike and warned that prolonged starvation was taking a serious toll on his physical condition.

His transfer to the hospital follows continuous monitoring by medical teams stationed at the protest venue.

Demand Over NEET Paper Leak

Wangchuk began the indefinite fast demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET examination paper leak.

The protest has drawn significant public attention, with Wangchuk insisting that accountability is necessary to restore confidence in India's examination system.

Opposition Leaders Express Support

Several Opposition leaders visited Wangchuk during his fast and expressed solidarity with his demands while urging him to end the hunger strike in view of his worsening health.

Among those who met him were:

• Congress leader Pawan Khera

• Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav

• Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal

They appealed to the activist to prioritise his health while continuing the campaign through democratic means.

What Happens Next

With Wangchuk now under medical supervision, attention is expected to shift to whether he continues or suspends his hunger strike based on doctors' advice and any future developments regarding his demands.

The Delhi High Court is also expected to continue monitoring the matter as authorities provide updates on his health condition.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday sought responses from the Central and Delhi governments on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking urgent intervention to safeguard the health of climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar for the past 18 days.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia issued notices to both governments after the matter was mentioned for urgent hearing. The petition, filed by activist-lawyer Rakesh Kumar Saini, has been listed for further hearing on Thursday.

PIL Raises Concern Over Deteriorating Health

According to the petition, Wangchuk has lost around 8.25 kilograms since beginning his indefinite fast and is reportedly experiencing recurrent episodes of low blood sugar, dizziness, severe weakness and muscle loss.

The plea warns that his condition is deteriorating rapidly and urges immediate intervention to protect his life while respecting his democratic right to protest.

The court has sought responses from the Centre and the Delhi government before taking further action in the matter.

Fast Linked to Education and Ladakh Demands

Wangchuk began the indefinite hunger strike on June 28 after claiming that the Centre did not respond to his demands within the deadline he had set.

His key demands include the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and constitutional safeguards for Ladakh through Sixth Schedule status and full statehood.

Earlier, Wangchuk had indicated that discussions with the Centre on Ladakh-related issues had shown progress and suggested that the remaining issues could be resolved during the Monsoon Session if the government initiated dialogue.

According to organisers, Wangchuk has been consuming only water and salt during the fast.

Support Grows for Protest

Meanwhile, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has announced a one-day mass hunger strike on July 16 in solidarity with Wangchuk and students supporting the protest.

CJP founder Abhijit Dipke shared an appeal attributed to Wangchuk, stating that instead of urging him to end the fast, people should ask the government why dialogue has not begun.

The protest at Jantar Mantar has continued to draw supporters from civil society, student organisations and activists.

History of Similar Protests

Wangchuk has previously undertaken several hunger strikes and protest marches demanding constitutional protections for Ladakh.

His past campaigns include an eight-day fast in Leh in 2023, the 'Delhi Chalo Padyatra' in 2024, another hunger strike in Delhi later that year, and a 35-day fast in 2025.

Following protests in Leh in September 2025, Wangchuk was arrested under the National Security Act and remained in custody for nearly six months before being released in March 2026.

Court to Hear Matter Again

With concerns mounting over Wangchuk's health, the Delhi High Court is expected to hear the matter again on Thursday after receiving preliminary responses from the governments.

The outcome of the hearing could determine whether any immediate medical or administrative intervention is directed while the protest continues.

The actor, who had earlier walked away from the project, shared a video rejecting the notice and maintained that he would continue to speak about his experience despite legal pressure. The latest development adds another chapter to an already contentious dispute involving the film, its producer Amit Jani, former cast members and an ongoing legal battle linked to Bollywood actor Salman Khan.

Sonu Mishra had previously alleged that he exited the film after discovering clauses in the proposed agreement that, according to him, required him to make public statements against Salman Khan while promoting the project. He claimed that the condition went against his personal ethics and prompted him to leave despite having already begun shooting. The makers of the film have not accepted those allegations.

In the latest episode, Mishra said the legal notice would not deter him from sharing what he described as the truth. In the video circulating on social media, he tore the document on camera, signalling that he had no intention of withdrawing his statements. The actor also reiterated that his objections were based on principle rather than professional differences.

The dispute comes at a time when Kala Hiran is already facing multiple controversies.

Veteran actor Govind Namdev had earlier distanced himself from the project, alleging that he was misled about the film's content. In response, producer Amit Jani served him with a legal notice seeking a public apology and monetary compensation, escalating the conflict beyond social media exchanges.

The film itself has also become the subject of court proceedings. Salman Khan has approached the Delhi High Court seeking to restrain the release of Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy, alleging that it violates his personality rights. According to reports, the petition argues that the teaser features a character resembling the actor and makes references that closely mirror the long-running blackbuck poaching case associated with him. The High Court has adjourned the matter, and further proceedings are awaited.

Producer Amit Jani has consistently defended the film and previously claimed that he received threats after the teaser was released. The controversy intensified when he publicly tore up a legal notice reportedly sent by Salman Khan's legal team, saying he would continue with the project. Former actress Somy Ali also extended support to Jani during the dispute.

Sonu Mishra, however, has challenged several of the producer's public claims. In earlier interviews, he questioned the public display surrounding the legal notices and alleged that the controversy was being amplified for publicity. He also claimed that the filmmakers objected to him sharing behind-the-scenes footage despite, according to him, no final agreement having been executed. These allegations remain disputed.

The film continues to draw attention because of its reported inspiration from the blackbuck poaching case involving Salman Khan and its alleged references to the Lawrence Bishnoi controversy. While the makers have maintained that the film is a work of fiction, legal challenges and public disagreements involving former cast members have kept the project in the spotlight.

With the High Court yet to decide on Salman Khan's plea and fresh exchanges emerging between the filmmakers and former actors associated with the project, the controversy surrounding Kala Hiran shows no signs of subsiding.

Bharti, who represented the Datia Assembly constituency in Madhya Pradesh, had approached the High Court seeking relief from the conviction and sentence awarded by the lower court. However, after hearing the matter, the court declined to interfere with the earlier judgment and upheld the findings against him.

The case relates to allegations of bank fraud, for which a trial court had previously convicted Bharti and sentenced him to three years of imprisonment. Following the conviction, he faced disqualification from the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly under provisions governing the eligibility of elected representatives.

The High Court's decision is significant because a conviction carrying a sentence of two years or more can result in the disqualification of a legislator under existing legal provisions. Bharti had hoped that relief from the appellate court could strengthen his legal position regarding the consequences arising from the conviction.

Legal experts note that appellate courts generally examine whether there were procedural lapses, errors in the appreciation of evidence or other grounds warranting interference with a lower court's judgment. In this case, the High Court found no reason to overturn the conviction and sentence imposed by the trial court.

The ruling marks another important development in a case that has attracted political attention in Madhya Pradesh due to Bharti’s status as a former legislator. The verdict is also likely to have implications for any future legal remedies he may choose to pursue.

While the High Court has upheld the conviction, Bharti still has the option of approaching the Supreme Court if he wishes to challenge the judgment further. Any such move would depend on the legal strategy adopted by his counsel in the coming days.

The decision comes amid increasing judicial scrutiny of financial fraud and corruption-related cases, with courts consistently emphasising accountability and adherence to banking and financial regulations.

For now, the Delhi High Court’s order ensures that the trial court’s three-year sentence remains in force, dealing a significant blow to the former Congress leader’s efforts to secure relief in the matter.

The Delhi High Court on Friday upheld Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav's conviction in seven cheque bounce cases and sentenced him to three months' simple imprisonment. The court directed that all seven sentences would run concurrently, meaning the actor will serve a total of three months in jail. 

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma dismissed the revision petitions filed by Yadav and other accused challenging the trial court's verdict, observing that the actor had repeatedly failed to honour settlement commitments despite being granted multiple opportunities by the court. 

Court Rejects Plea for Relief

The High Court noted that it had earlier extended relief to Yadav after he expressed willingness to settle the dispute amicably. However, despite several extensions and assurances given before the court, the promised payments were not made within the stipulated timelines.

According to the judgment, the court found no merit in the explanations offered for the repeated delays in complying with settlement terms. It held that the trial court had correctly appreciated the evidence and there was no reason to interfere with the conviction under the Negotiable Instruments Act. 

Compensation Directions Issued

Apart from the jail sentence, the High Court directed Rajpal Yadav to pay compensation to the complainant in all seven cheque dishonour cases. The court observed that the compensation had been calculated after taking into account the amounts already deposited by the actor during earlier proceedings.

The judgment also clarified that the payments already made by Yadav would be adjusted while determining his remaining financial liability. 

Case Linked to Film Financing

The legal dispute dates back to 2010, when Rajpal Yadav borrowed approximately ₹5 crore from Murli Projects Pvt. Ltd. to finance his directorial debut film, Ata Pata Laapata. The film failed commercially, leaving the actor unable to repay the loan as agreed.

Over the years, interest, penalties and delayed payments reportedly increased the outstanding liability to around ₹9 crore. Cheques issued towards repayment were dishonoured due to insufficient funds, resulting in multiple criminal complaints under the Negotiable Instruments Act. 

Previous Opportunities Not Utilised

Court records show that Yadav had earlier secured interim relief after assuring the High Court that he would settle the dispute. The matter was even referred for mediation, and several deadlines were granted to facilitate an amicable resolution.

However, the High Court observed that despite repeated opportunities, the settlement could not be completed. The court also rejected arguments citing technical issues in payment instruments, stating that such explanations could not justify continued non-compliance with judicial directions. 

Legal Battle Continues

The verdict marks the latest development in a legal battle that has continued for several years. The High Court's decision affirms the trial court's findings while reducing the effective imprisonment to three months, with all sentences running simultaneously.

The ruling also reinforces the legal principle that repeated failure to honour court-approved settlement commitments can attract criminal consequences under the provisions governing cheque dishonour cases.