Bengaluru: Case registered after MoU violation in ‘Lakshmi Nivasa’ investment
The Bengaluru police have registered a case of cheating against a couple producing the Kannada television serial Lakshmi Nivasa for allegedly duping Lokesh Productions of ₹1 crore. The complaint, filed by Srujan Lokesh — son of veteran actor late Lokesh — accuses Nirmala C and her husband Sathya, of Sai Nirmala Productions, of failing to return investment money despite signing a formal agreement.
The agreement and alleged fraud
According to the FIR lodged at Channammanakere Achukattu police station on August 27, the two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on November 23, 2023.
- Lokesh Productions invested ₹1 crore in Lakshmi Nivasa.
- As per the MoU, Nirmala was to pay ₹5 lakh every month to Srujan Lokesh starting April 1, 2024.
- The complaint alleges that no payments were made despite repeated reminders.
Instead of returning the investment, the accused allegedly cited various excuses and delayed repayment, violating the MoU. Sathya had also assured repayment at the time of signing, according to the complaint.
Police action
Police have registered a case under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC):
- 406 (criminal breach of trust)
- 417 (cheating)
- 418 (cheating with knowledge that wrongful loss may ensue)
- 420 (cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property)
A senior police officer confirmed that the accused couple have since gone incommunicado. “Efforts are being made to trace them,” the officer said.
Conclusion
The case highlights the rising number of financial disputes in the Kannada television industry, where production houses often depend on external investments. Police investigations are underway to recover the amount and hold the accused accountable.