Court Directives for Handwriting Analysis
A special court in Mumbai has mandated that the four individuals arrested for allegedly firing outside actor Salman Khan’s residence must submit handwriting samples. This directive comes as part of an ongoing investigation by the Anti-Extortion Cell (AEC) concerning a 2022 threat made against Salman Khan’s father, Salim Khan.
Details of the Incident
The accused—Vicky Kumar Gupta, Sagar Pal, Mohammad Choudhari, and Harpal Singh—are reported to have opened fire outside Khan’s Galary Apartment in Bandra West on April 14, 2024. The court has deemed it necessary for the accused to provide handwriting samples to facilitate a comparison with a threatening note linked to an earlier case.
Background of the Threat
In June 2022, Salim Khan discovered a handwritten message during his morning walk in the Bandstand area. The note contained a menacing reference, stating, “Salim Khan, Salman Khan bahut jald aapka Moosewala hoga K G.B.L.B.” This message alluded to the high-profile murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala, which was reportedly orchestrated by the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.
Investigative Efforts
The AEC has previously sought permission from the special court to obtain handwriting samples from the suspects involved in the 2024 shooting. Investigators aim to establish whether those arrested in the recent incident have any connections to the threatening note from 2022.
Prosecution vs. Defense
During the court proceedings, Special Public Prosecutor Wajeed Shaikh emphasized the importance of acquiring the handwriting samples for thorough investigation. In contrast, defense attorneys Amit Mishra and Pravin Pande opposed the request, arguing that since a charge sheet has already been filed, the need for additional handwriting samples is unnecessary.
Current Status of the Accused
The four accused are currently being held at Taloja Central Prison in Navi Mumbai, where the handwriting samples will be collected as part of the ongoing investigation.
