Madras HC stays 'Aarakshan' release on cheque bouncing case

Judge V Periyakarupiah issued the interim order staying the worldwide release of the Amitabh Bachchan starrer on August 12 till the amount is paid to financiers GG Photo Limited.

The court directed Base Industries Group, represented by Nadiadwala, to pay the suit claim to GG Photo, represented by its director Sushil Gupta and Madhu Gupta. In the civil suit, the plaintiffs said GG Photos provided Rs two crore to Base Industries while Madhu Gupta advanced Rs 1.25 crore to the producers on various dates. The producer had entered into an agreement on October 5 last with the Guptas and had confirmed receipt of total sum of Rs 3.25 crore.

The suit claimed that forged cheques had been issued for an amount of Rs 3.71 crore which included the interest. However, the cheques were returned unpaid. It said the producer had undertaken that he would repay the entire dues before the release of any of his forthcoming films but they have completed production of 'Aarakashan,' and are releasing it now on August 12.

They said they filed the case urgently for recovery of dues because if the producer went ahead with releasing the film, they will not be able to recover their money thereafter. The cause of action for the suit arose partly at Mumbai and partly in Chennai as payments were made in both the cities by the producer.

Meanwhile, Jha claimed the issue has nothing to do with the movie's release. He said the matter is being sorted out by Nadiadwala and the film will release on time.