Samir Wankhede Denies Bribery Allegations in Aryan Khan Case

Wankhede's Defense in Court

In an ongoing case, former NCB officer Samir Wankhede has asserted in the Bombay High Court that he neither solicited nor accepted any bribe from actor Shah Rukh Khan. He emphasized that another party is responsible for the allegations against him. While appearing in court, Wankhede refuted claims that he demanded a bribe of ₹25 crore in connection with the Aryan Khan case. His attorney, Abad Ponda, argued that Wankhede did not request or receive any bribe, suggesting that the accusations were directed at someone else. He pointed out that the CBI's case does not directly implicate Wankhede in any alleged payment.

However, the bench, comprising Chief Justice Chandrashekhar and Justice Suman Shyam, clarified that the absence of a charge sheet is not the central issue in this matter.

Legal Arguments Presented

During the proceedings, senior advocate Abad Ponda, representing Wankhede, reiterated that his client did not demand or accept any bribe from Shah Rukh Khan. According to the CBI's FIR, Wankhede and others allegedly sought ₹25 crore from Shah Rukh in exchange for clearing his son of any wrongdoing.

Despite these claims, Ponda maintained that the CBI lacks evidence to support the assertion that Wankhede solicited or accepted a bribe. He noted that the investigation was conducted in accordance with legal protocols, and actions against Aryan were taken following established procedures. After considering these arguments, the bench scheduled the next hearing for March 24.