Court Orders Police To Probe Molestation Complaint Against Cricketer Prithvi Shaw

A metropolitan magistrate court in Mumbai has directed the police to conduct an inquiry into social media influencer Sapna Gill’s allegations of molestation against cricketer Prithvi Shaw. The court’s decision comes after Gill lodged a complaint seeking the registration of an FIR against Shaw and his friend Ashish Yadav for assaulting her at an Andheri pub in 2023. Despite the police’s initial dismissal of Gill’s claims, the court has intervened, signaling a renewed investigation into the matter.

Allegations and Legal Proceedings

Gill’s complaint before the magistrate court invoked sections 354, 509, and 324 of the Indian Penal Code, alleging assault, insult to modesty, and causing hurt by dangerous means against Shaw and Yadav. She pursued legal action after her initial complaint to the airport police station went unheeded. However, the police, in their defense, presented evidence from CCTV footage suggesting that Gill and her friend were intoxicated and dancing at the pub. Furthermore, witnesses testified that there was no inappropriate behavior towards Gill.

Police Investigation

The police’s investigation extended beyond the pub’s CCTV footage, encompassing CCTV footage from the Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower nearby. This footage depicted Gill wielding a baseball bat and damaging Shaw’s car’s windshield. Additionally, statements from witnesses, including a CISF official, corroborated the lack of molestation allegations against Shaw and his associates. The police concluded that Gill’s allegations were false and unfounded.

Court Intervention and Direction

Despite the police’s findings, the metropolitan magistrate court, upon hearing Gill’s complaint, directed the Mumbai police to conduct a thorough inquiry into the matter. The court’s decision underscores the importance of impartial investigation and due process in addressing allegations of molestation and assault. It also highlights the judiciary’s role in ensuring justice for both the complainant and the accused.

Conclusion

The case involving Sapna Gill’s allegations against Prithvi Shaw has garnered significant attention, reflecting the intersection of sports, social media, and law enforcement. While the initial police investigation suggested no wrongdoing on Shaw’s part, the court’s intervention necessitates a fresh examination of the evidence. As the inquiry unfolds, it remains imperative to uphold the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability to ascertain the truth behind the allegations and ensure justice is served impartially.