Explained: Why Was Raj Kundra Arrested In Relation To An Adult Film Racket?

The Mumbai Police detained businessman Raj Kundra, husband of actress and entrepreneur Shilpa Shetty, on Monday in connection with an adult film scam. What exactly is the case, and does Kundra have any additional cases like this?

WHAT IS THE NATURE OF THE CASE IN WHICH RAJ KUNDRA WAS HELD IN CUSTODY?

On February 4 of this year, the Mumbai police stated they had arrested five people for allegedly forcing women into porn videos. They would promise these aspiring actresses from all around the country opportunities in web series if they came to Mumbai. On the day of the filming, however, they would alter the script and threaten the women with exposure. If the women declined, they were told that they would be responsible for the cost of the shooting preparations.

After the films were shot, the defendants made them available on mobile apps with subscriptions similar to those seen on popular OTT platforms. They would then use social media sites to market. Because pornography is outlawed in India, this was also punishable.

WHAT WERE THE PRODUCTION METHODS AND LOCATIONS FOR THESE FILMS?

It would generally be a daylong shoot at a leased home on the outskirts of Mumbai, such as Madh Island, according to the police. A minimum of five to six persons would be employed as directors, dialogue writers, location scouters, and web app developers. According to the authorities, these apps grew in popularity during the lockdown, with some having tens of thousands of users.

WHAT ROLE DID RAJ KUNDRA PLAY, ACCORDING TO THE POLICE?

The police investigation had two components. One was pursuing individuals who created the pornographic shows, while the other was pursuing those who broadcast the clips. Some of these production companies transmit from servers located outside of the United States.

The executive of one such UK production business, Umesk Kamat, was detained after it was discovered to be uploading similar content. Kundra was arrested because of his claimed ties to Kamat and the company that posted the pornographic content, according to an officer.

ARE THERE ANY OTHER PENDING CASES AGAINST KUNDRA?

In connection with a case filed by the Maharashtra Cyber police last year, Kundra asked for anticipatory bail last month. The cyber police had filed a FIR in that case as well, alleging that numerous sites were involved in showing pornographic information. The anticipatory bail application is expected to be decided by the court next week.

AFTER HIS ARREST, RAJ KUNDRA’S OLD TWEET ON “PORN VS. PROSTITUTION” GETS VIRAL, AND THE INTERNET CALLS IT “IRONIC.”

An old tweet from Shilpa Shetty’s husband Raj Kundra has reappeared on the internet a day after he was arrested for his suspected role in a case involving the production and distribution of pornographic films. The businessman questioned why pornography was permitted but prostitution was not in the tweet.

“Ok so here go’s Porn Vs Prostitution. Why is it legal to pay someone for sex on camera? How is one different to the other??”

In March of 2012, Raj Kundra tweeted. After his arrest late last night, the tweet re-emerged.

So far, nine people have been arrested in connection with the case. Ryan Thorpe, Kundra’s close buddy, was also arrested and appeared in court with him on Tuesday. According to PTI, the lawsuit was filed in February when a woman complained about being coerced to perform in an adult film after being promised an acting role. During the interrogation, Kundra’s name came up.

Kundra was a “major conspirator” in the crime, according to the police, and there was enough evidence against him. “We have arrested Raj Kundra in this case on 19/7/21 as he appears to be the major conspirator,” Mumbai Police Commissioner Hemant Nagrale stated on Monday. This is supported by significant evidence. “An investigation is underway.”