Businessman Raj Kundra Faces ED Summons Days After Raids In Pornography Case

Bollywood actor Shilpa Shetty’s husband and businessman Raj Kundra has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) as part of an ongoing investigation into a pornography case.

Bollywood actor Shilpa Shetty’s husband and businessman Raj Kundra has been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) as part of an ongoing investigation into a pornography case. This follows recent ED raids at several locations linked to Kundra in connection with a money laundering probe tied to the production and distribution of explicit content.

Kundra was arrested by Mumbai Police in July 2021 for allegedly producing and distributing pornographic material but was later granted bail. He has denied the allegations, claiming he was made a “scapegoat” in the case.

Earlier this year, the ED seized assets worth ₹98 crore as part of its money laundering investigation into the Gain Bitcoin Ponzi Scam. The seized properties included a Juhu flat in Mumbai, a Pune bungalow, and equity shares. The probe dates back to 2018 when the ED began investigating Amit Bharadwaj’s Ponzi scheme. Although Kundra and Shetty were not initially suspects, they were informed in April 2024 that their assets were provisionally attached in connection with the case.

What is the Case Against Raj Kundra?

The investigation into Kundra began in February 2021 when Mumbai Police uncovered a pornography racket following complaints from several women. These women alleged they were coerced into creating explicit content under the pretext of auditions for web series and films. They claimed they were pressured to complete the shoots, which were later distributed via subscription-based mobile apps such as HotHit Movies, Hotshots, and websites like Nuefliks and Hothitmovies.

In 2019, Kundra founded Armsprime Media Private Limited, which became a focal point in the investigation. The company developed the Hotshots app, later transferred to Kenrin Limited, a UK-based entity operated by Kundra’s brother-in-law, Pradeep Bakshi. Authorities allege Kundra maintained control over the app and other platforms, using them to distribute explicit content and generating significant profits from subscription fees. Four of his employees reportedly came forward as witnesses, providing detailed insights into the operation of the illicit network.