Mon Mar 23 09:36:26 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Sameer Wankhede Denies Bribery Allegations in Aryan Khan Drug Case, CBI Investigation Continues

The Story:
Former Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) zonal director Sameer Wankhede has denied demanding a bribe from Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan in connection with the 2021 Cordelia drug bust case involving Khan’s son, Aryan Khan. Wankhede’s lawyer argued before the Bombay High Court that there was no evidence of a bribe demand or receipt of money by Wankhede himself. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed an FIR against Wankhede and others based on a report from a Special Enquiry Team (SET) that investigated alleged procedural lapses by NCB officials.

The Bombay High Court is currently hearing Wankhede’s plea to quash the FIR. The court had previously granted Wankhede interim protection from arrest and indicated that the CBI could file a chargesheet after obtaining the court’s approval. Aryan Khan was granted bail in October 2021 after nearly a month in custody, and his name was later dropped from the chargesheet due to insufficient evidence by another NCB team.

Key Points:

  • Sameer Wankhede denies demanding a Rs 25 crore bribe from Shah Rukh Khan related to Aryan Khan‘s arrest in 2021.
  • The CBI filed an FIR against Wankhede based on a SET report investigating alleged procedural lapses.
  • Wankhede’s lawyer claims there is no evidence of a bribe demand or receipt of money by Wankhede.
  • The Bombay High Court will continue hearing Wankhede’s plea on Tuesday, March 24.
  • Aryan Khan was eventually released and cleared due to insufficient evidence.

Key Takeaways:

  • The case highlights the complexities and potential for corruption within drug enforcement agencies.
  • The focus has shifted from Aryan Khan’s alleged drug possession to the conduct of the NCB officials involved in the initial investigation.
  • The Bombay High Court’s scrutiny suggests a thorough examination of the CBI’s evidence against Wankhede.
  • The case raises questions about the motives and potential biases of the Special Enquiry Team.
  • The legal proceedings will determine the future of Wankhede and could have implications for how drug-related cases are handled in the future.

Impact Analysis:

The Sameer Wankhede case has significant long-term implications for the credibility of the Narcotics Control Bureau and the handling of high-profile drug cases in India. A finding of wrongdoing on Wankhede’s part could lead to reforms within the NCB to prevent future abuses of power and procedural lapses. Conversely, if Wankhede is cleared, it could raise questions about the CBI’s investigation and the motivations behind the FIR. The case also underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in drug enforcement, particularly when dealing with influential individuals and their families. The outcome of this case will likely influence public perception of law enforcement and the justice system in India.

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