In a dramatic legal development, the Bombay High Court has dismissed Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s ₹100-crore defamation suit against his brother Shamasuddin Siddiqui and ex-wife Anjana Pandey due to non-prosecution. The single-judge bench of Justice Jitendra Jain passed the order on October 10, 2025, after Nawazuddin and his legal counsel failed to appear in court to pursue the matter.
The suit, filed in March 2023, alleged misappropriation of ₹21 crore from Nawazuddin’s bank accounts and defamation through media statements that allegedly damaged his professional and personal reputation. The court’s dismissal has reignited public debate over celebrity legal battles and the importance of procedural diligence.
🧠 Case Background: Allegations and Timeline
| Year | Event Description |
|---|---|
| 2008 | Nawazuddin appoints Shamasuddin as business manager |
| 2015–2022 | Alleged misappropriation of funds and joint property purchases |
| 2023 | Nawazuddin files ₹100-crore defamation suit |
| Oct 2025 | Bombay HC dismisses case due to non-appearance |
Nawazuddin claimed that his brother, entrusted with managing his finances, had used his accounts to purchase properties in joint names and diverted funds without consent. He also accused his ex-wife of colluding with Shamasuddin and making defamatory statements to the media.
📊 Legal Arguments and Court Observations
| Legal Claim | Nawazuddin’s Allegation |
|---|---|
| Defamation | False media statements harming reputation |
| Misappropriation | ₹21 crore siphoned from personal accounts |
| Breach of Trust | Unauthorized property deals |
| Emotional Distress | Public humiliation and family discord |
Justice Jain dismissed the suit citing non-prosecution, meaning the petitioner failed to appear or take necessary steps to advance the case. A detailed copy of the court order is awaited.
🧾 Key Individuals Involved
| Name | Role in Case |
|---|---|
| Nawazuddin Siddiqui | Plaintiff, Bollywood actor |
| Shamasuddin Siddiqui | Defendant, brother and former manager |
| Anjana Pandey | Defendant, ex-wife |
| Justice Jitendra Jain | Presiding judge, Bombay High Court |
The court’s decision does not rule on the merits of the allegations but reflects procedural lapse. Legal experts suggest Nawazuddin may refile or appeal, but the dismissal weakens his position.
🗣️ Public and Industry Reactions
- Legal Analysts: “Dismissal for non-prosecution is procedural, not substantive.”
- Entertainment Industry: “Celebrity disputes often blur lines between personal and public.”
- Social Media: Mixed reactions, with some supporting Nawazuddin and others questioning the legal strategy.
🧭 What’s Next for Nawazuddin?
- Legal Options: May file fresh suit or appeal dismissal
- Public Image: Needs damage control amid media scrutiny
- Professional Focus: Upcoming film releases and brand endorsements
Nawazuddin has not issued a formal statement post-dismissal, but sources close to the actor suggest he is consulting legal advisors on next steps.
Disclaimer
This news content is based on verified court records, legal proceedings, and public statements as of October 11, 2025. It is intended for editorial use and public awareness. The information does not constitute legal advice, celebrity endorsement, or judicial opinion and adheres to ethical journalism standards.
