By – Prakarsh Kastwar
New Delhi, December 10, 2024 – In a significant legal development, the Patiala House Court in Delhi has issued a notice to veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, along with two co-accused, in connection with an alleged fraud related to the Garam Dharam Dhaba franchise. Judicial Magistrate Yashdeep Chahal issued the notice based on a complaint filed by a Delhi-based businessman, Sushil Kumar, who alleged he was lured into investing in the franchise under false pretenses.
Details of the Allegations
The complainant, Sushil Kumar, claims he was approached by co-accused representatives of Dharmendra in April 2018. They proposed the opening of a Garam Dharam Dhaba franchise on NH-24/NH-9 in Uttar Pradesh. Kumar alleges he was assured of a lucrative business opportunity, with promises of assistance to set up the franchise and a 7% return on his investment of ₹41 lakh.
The accused cited the successful operations of Garam Dharam Dhaba branches in Connaught Place, Delhi, and Murthal, Haryana, claiming these outlets generated a monthly turnover of ₹70-80 lakh. Persuaded by these assurances, Kumar purchased land on a highway near Gajraula in District Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, in November 2018.
However, the complainant states that after the investment and subsequent follow-ups, no progress was made. The accused allegedly failed to inspect the purchased land or communicate further, leading Kumar to believe he had been deceived.
Court Observations
Judicial Magistrate Chahal noted that at the stage of summons, the court’s role is to determine whether the case has a prima facie basis. The court highlighted that the transaction revolved around the Garam Dharam Dhaba franchise, with relevant documents, including a letter of intent, bearing the restaurant’s logo.
The court has summoned Dharmendra and the two co-accused under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC):
- Section 420 (Cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property)
- Section 120B (Criminal conspiracy)
- Section 34 (Acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention)
- Section 506 (Criminal intimidation, applicable to the co-accused)
Hearing Scheduled for February 2025
The case will now be heard on February 20, 2025. The court emphasized that it had previously dismissed an application to register an FIR on October 9, 2020, but later took cognizance of the complaint and directed Kumar to produce evidence.
Complainant’s Counsel Speaks
Advocate D.D. Pandey, representing Sushil Kumar, stated that several emails and monetary transactions corroborate the complainant’s allegations. Despite repeated attempts, the complainant received no response or assistance from the accused, leading to the current legal proceedings.
Accusations Against Dharmendra
Actor Dharmendra, now 89 years old, is accused of being complicit in the fraudulent scheme by allowing his name and brand to be used in the alleged deceit. The complainant contends that the actor’s involvement lent credibility to the proposal, which ultimately led to his financial loss.
Legal Implications and Next Steps
The court clarified that its current focus is on establishing prima facie evidence and not delving into the merits of the case. The notice issued to the accused marks a significant step in the judicial process.
The case highlights the growing need for due diligence in franchise agreements and the responsibilities of public figures associated with business ventures.
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as the case progresses.