In a significant legal development, the Delhi High Court on Monday issued a stay on the order of a lower court that had mandated a renewed investigation into allegations against Gautam Gambhir, the former cricketer and ex-MP, now serving as the Indian cricket team’s coach. The case revolves around accusations made by home buyers against Gambhir and several real estate firms associated with the “Serra Bella” housing project, which was later renamed “Pavo Real”.
Justice Manoj Kumar Ohri’s decision came after home buyers accused the real estate companies—Rudra Buildwell Realty Pvt Ltd, H R Infracity Pvt Ltd, and U M Architectures and Contractors Ltd—of fraudulent activities. Gambhir, who had served as a director and brand ambassador for these firms, was implicated in the lack of infrastructural development and failure to deliver the properties within the promised timeline.
The aggrieved buyers, who had invested amounts ranging from 6 to 16 lakhs in the projects, approached the court alleging cheating and criminal breach of trust under various sections of the Indian Penal Code. They claimed that even after 36 months from the booking date, there was no progress in the project’s development or possession of the flats.
Earlier, a special court had set aside a magisterial court’s decision to discharge Gambhir and other accused, citing the previous ruling as legally insufficient and non-descriptive regarding the allegations. It also directed the Enforcement Directorate to probe possible money laundering aspects and update on its findings.
Responding to these developments, Gambhir’s counsel, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, argued that further investigations would only lead to harassment of his client, who has maintained a clean record. Justice Ohri, while acknowledging the need for a detailed order, has temporarily halted the lower court’s directive pending further review.
