A lawyer from Chhattisgarh, Faizan Khan, was taken into police custody on Thursday for allegedly making a death threat to Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan. Mumbai police had arrested Faizan on November 12 in Raipur and, after securing permission from a Chhattisgarh court, transferred him to Mumbai for further investigation.
The Origin of the Case
The case began when Bandra Police Station received a call demanding ₹50 lakh from Shah Rukh Khan, with the caller threatening to harm the actor if the ransom wasn't paid. When Faizan did not respond to police questioning, he was taken into custody.
Court Proceedings
During the court hearing, Faizan's lawyers claimed that his phone had been stolen before the alleged threat call was made. The police, however, requested a seven-day custody to investigate the case further, though the court approved four days for now.
Legal Implications
This case highlights the serious nature of making threats against public figures in India. The Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 506 deals with criminal intimidation, which carries severe penalties including imprisonment and fines. Additionally, the Information Technology Act may also apply to threats made through electronic means.
Impact on Legal Profession
The arrest of a practicing lawyer raises concerns about the misuse of legal privileges and the importance of maintaining professional ethics. The Bar Council of India's rules on professional conduct and etiquette are clear about the standards expected from legal practitioners.
Current Status
As of now, the investigation is ongoing with the Mumbai police examining digital evidence and communication records. The case continues to draw national attention due to the involvement of a high-profile celebrity and the serious nature of the allegations.