The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) has accused Netflix India of not cooperating in its investigation of an ongoing legal dispute with producer Vashu Bhagnani and Pooja Entertainment.
The production house, run by Vashu and his son Jackky Bhagnani, is embroiled in a Rs 47.37 crore lawsuit against the streaming giant over allegations of cheating and non-payment.
The controversy stems from financial disagreements between Pooja Entertainment and Netflix. Vashu Bhagnani claims Netflix owes his company Rs 47.37 crores.
Netflix Accused Of Non-Co-operation In The Investigation Process
However, Netflix has denied the allegations, countering that it is actually Pooja Entertainment that owes them money. The case, which has been under investigation by the EOW since April 2024, seems to be swinging in favour of the Bhagnanis due to Netflix’s alleged lack of cooperation.
Senior Inspector Ravindra Avhad, leading the investigation, expressed frustration with Netflix’s handling of the situation. “This Rs 47.37 crore is what Netflix owes Vashu Bhagnani,” Avhad stated.
“But Netflix is not cooperating. We sent them two summons, but they didn’t appear. The Bhagnanis came to us in April, gave their statements, and handed over documents. Netflix asked for time but never showed up. They keep sending lower-level staff, but it’s Monica Shergill (Content Head, Netflix India) who should be appearing.”
Netflix Had Earlier Responded To Allegations From Vashu Bhagnani
Netflix responded to the allegations with a firm denial, issuing a statement: “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.”
The Bhagnanis filed their complaint with the EOW in April 2024, accusing Netflix of conspiring against the rights of three of their films: Hero No 1 (still in production), Mission Raniganj, and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. The complaint was filed against Los Gatos Production Services India, Netflix’s investment arm in India, as well as Zoo Digital India and executives from both companies.
Despite the legal battle, Vashu Bhagnani remains confident in the outcome. “We registered the case against Netflix in April. We have full faith in the EOW to resolve the matter,” Bhagnani commented.
Vashu Bhagnani Disappointed With Lack Of Support From Industry
A source close to the case has revealed that the Bhagnani family, with over 40 years in the film industry, feels increasingly isolated.
“The Bhagnanis believe the industry isn’t supporting them through their rough patch,” the source said on condition of anonymity.
“They have faced significant losses, and their last film’s director, Ali Abbas Zafar, took over Rs 14 crores, for which they’ve filed a police complaint. They’re willing to repay everyone’s pending dues, but they need their dues to be paid first.”
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