2012 Saif Ali Khan Taj Brawl Case: Court Warns Malaika Arora Of Arrest Warrant For Skipping Testimony

2012 Saif Ali Khan Taj Brawl Case Update: The Metropolitan Magistrate court has issued a stern warning to model and Bollywood actress Malaika Arora. She faces the possibility of a non-bailable warrant due to her continued absence from court hearings. This is in relation to a case stemming from a 2012 altercation at the Taj hotel involving actor Saif Ali Khan and an NRI businessman.

During the incident on February 22, 2012, Saif was dining with 12 film industry colleagues when a dispute arose. The complainant, Iqbal Sharma, an NRI businessman, claimed that the group's noise disturbed other patrons. When Sharma objected and approached restaurant staff, Saif and his friends allegedly argued with him, leading to an assault.

Legal Proceedings and Witness Testimonies

Malaika Arora was present at the hotel during the incident and is required to testify as a witness. On Tuesday, she failed to appear in court again, prompting her lawyer to request an exemption. The magistrate noted her absence despite being aware of the proceedings and issued a bailable warrant against her.

Previously, on February 15, the court had issued bailable warrants against Malaika, her sister Amruta, and Farukh Wadia for not appearing in court. While Amruta and Farukh later testified—though Farukh was declared hostile—Malaika has yet to do so. Her continued absence led to another warrant being issued.

Details of the Incident

The Colaba police station registered a complaint against Saif Ali Khan and two others under Sections 325 (voluntarily causing grievous hurt) and 34 (common intent) of the Indian Penal Code following the incident. The charge-sheet was filed on December 21, 2012.

The court has granted Malaika Arora one final exemption but warned that failure to appear at the next hearing will result in a non-bailable warrant being issued against her. This decision underscores the seriousness with which the court views her repeated absences.

This ongoing legal matter highlights the importance of adhering to court procedures and attending hearings when summoned as a witness. It remains crucial for all involved parties to comply with legal obligations to ensure justice is served.