The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Raj Kundra, the businessman and husband of Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty, for questioning in connection with a money laundering investigation. The case is linked to the alleged illegal distribution of pornographic films. According to official sources, Kundra has been asked to appear before the investigating officer this week. Several other individuals involved in the case have also been summoned.
Earlier in December, the ED conducted raids at Kundra’s residence in Mumbai, as well as properties linked to other suspects across various locations in Uttar Pradesh.
In response, Kundra expressed his cooperation with the ongoing investigation, which has been in progress for the past four years. On Saturday, he stated that he is “fully complying” with the process. Kundra’s lawyer further clarified that the action was not directed at Shilpa Shetty, and emphasized that Kundra is working to ensure the truth emerges.
The case stems from a 2022 money laundering probe, which was triggered by at least two FIRs filed by the Mumbai Police. Kundra and others were arrested and later granted bail. This marks the second money laundering case involving Kundra; earlier this year, the ED attached assets worth Rs 98 crore belonging to him and Shetty in connection with a cryptocurrency-related case, though the couple received relief from the Bombay High Court against the attachment order.
The money laundering investigation revolves around the ‘Hotshots’ app, which was allegedly used by the accused to upload and stream obscene content. Kundra, however, has consistently denied any active involvement in the production of the alleged pornographic films. He claims he was falsely implicated in the case and states that no direct evidence links him to the crime.
The case is based on complaints from two women, and additional evidence has revealed that aspiring actors were reportedly lured under the pretext of auditions for web series, only to be coerced into performing explicit scenes. Police investigations revealed that small-time artists were manipulated into performing semi-nude or nude scenes against their will.
According to the police, Kundra established Armsprime Media Pvt Ltd, which, through a London-based company, Kenrin Pvt Ltd, managed the ‘Hotshots’ app. This platform was used to upload objectionable videos. Investigators also found WhatsApp conversations on Kundra’s phone, which discussed the sale of 119 adult films to a buyer for USD 1.2 million.
