Nora Fatehi Testifies in Delhi Court Over Extortion Case

NEW DELHI: Canadian Bollywood actor and dancer Nora Fatehi recorded her official statement before Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court on Friday in connection with the multi-million dollar Rs 200 crore extortion case involving alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar.

Clarifying her legal status during the proceedings, the artist informed the court that she resides and works in India strictly under a valid foreign work visa, maintaining her stance as a witness and victim rather than a co-conspirator.

During her testimony before the Additional Sessions Judge, Fatehi detailed her limited interactions with Chandrashekhar and his associates, asserting that she was completely unaware of his criminal background when invited to attend public events.

She explained that she only learned about the syndicate after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched its extensive investigation into the massive money laundering scheme.

Fatehi emphasized that she has fully cooperated with financial intelligence agencies, providing complete documentation regarding her professional contracts, event fees, and visa credentials.

The high-stakes Rs 200 crore extortion case has cast a wide shadow over India’s film industry, bringing several prominent Bollywood celebrities under regulatory and judicial scrutiny. The proceedings highlight growing concerns regarding how economic offenders use high-profile entertainment events and extravagant gifts to launder illicit assets. For foreign nationals working in India’s entertainment landscape, the case underscores the strict legal and compliance frameworks governing work visas and financial disclosures.

The Rouse Avenue Court has formally documented Fatehi’s statement as part of the broader trial under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The judicial bench adjourned the session after directing the prosecution to present further witnesses in the ongoing trial against Chandrashekhar and his associates.

Further cross-examinations and hearings are scheduled to continue in the coming weeks as financial crime investigators seek to finalize charges.