Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma Sentenced to Three Months Jail in Cheque Bounce Case

Renowned filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma, known for movies like Satya and Rangeela, has been sentenced to three months in jail by the Andheri Magistrate Court in a cheque bounce case. The court, which has been hearing the case for seven years, delivered the verdict on Tuesday. Varma was absent during the court proceedings, prompting the issuance of a non-bailable warrant (NBW) for his arrest.

Case Details

The case dates back to 2018, when a cheque issued by Varma’s firm could not be encashed. This led to a complaint by Shree, a company represented by Maheshchandra Mishra. The cheque for ₹2.38 lakh was dishonoured, constituting an offence under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, which penalizes cheque dishonour due to insufficient funds or exceeding arranged limits.

Varma has also been ordered to pay ₹3.72 lakh in compensation to the complainant within three months. Failure to comply will result in an additional three months of simple imprisonment.

Filmmaker’s Statement

Responding to the verdict, Varma issued a statement clarifying his position:
“With regard to the news about me and the Andheri court, I want to clarify that it pertains to a 7-year-old case involving ₹2.38 lakh, relating to an ex-employee. It is not about settling the meagre amount but about refusing to be exploited by attempts to fabricate. That’s all I can say for now as the matter is in court.”

Financial Troubles

Varma has faced financial difficulties in recent years, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, when he had to sell his office. In June 2022, he was granted bail after furnishing a personal bond and cash security of ₹5,000.

However, during sentencing, Magistrate YP Pujari clarified that Varma was not eligible for any set-off under Section 428 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, as he had not spent any time in custody during the trial.

Legal Consequences

The Andheri Magistrate Court’s decision underscores the importance of adhering to financial obligations, even for high-profile individuals. Varma’s absence at the hearing and subsequent non-bailable warrant have further complicated his legal troubles.