EOW claims Netflix not complying in Vashu Bhagnani’s Rs 47.37 crore investigation

Pooja Entertainment, led by Vashu and Jackky Bhagnani, is currently entangled in a legal dispute with Netflix over a hefty sum of Rs 47.37 crore. This dispute comes on the heels of a series of underwhelming box office performances from their recent films. Vashu Bhagnani has filed a lawsuit accusing Netflix of cheating and non-payment, a claim Netflix has firmly denied, countering that it is Pooja Entertainment that owes them money. The case is now being investigated by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW), with the scales seemingly tipping in favor of the Bhagnanis due to Netflix India's alleged lack of cooperation.

In an interview with Hindustan Times, Senior Inspector Ravindra Avhad, the officer handling the case, shed light on the ongoing investigation. "This amount of Rs 47.37 crores is what Netflix owes to the complainant Vashu Bhagnani. But Netflix is not cooperating. We sent them two summons, but they are not appearing. They haven't replied to the letter sent to them by us. Bhagnanis came to us in April, we recorded their statements, collected the required documents. Netflix asked for some time, but aaye hi nahi. Lower level ke staff ko bhej dete hain statement ke liye, but it is Monica Shergill (Content Head, Netflix India) who should appear," he explained.

When questioned about Netflix’s counterclaim, Avhad responded, "I am not aware about what statement Netflix has issued, but aisa kuchh nahi hai." This suggests that despite Netflix's public assertion, there might be little basis to their claim in the eyes of the investigation thus far.

Netflix, on the other hand, has remained resolute in its stance. In a media statement, they said, “These claims are completely unfounded — indeed it’s Pooja Entertainment that owes Netflix money. We have a strong track record of partnership with the Indian creative community and are working with the authorities to resolve this dispute.”