NATIONAL: Relief for Dulquer Salmaan from Kerala High Court
Court Grants Provisional Release
Actor Dulquer Salmaan breathed a sigh of relief when the Kerala High Court stepped in on his seized luxury vehicle case.
The court directed customs authorities to provisionally release his 2004 Land Rover Defender, subject to a bond and bank guarantee.
This decision came after Salmaan challenged the seizure, arguing he bought the car legitimately from the Indian Red Cross.
Operation Namkhor Uncovered
The broader investigation, dubbed Operation Namkhor, targeted the smuggling of high-end cars from Bhutan into India using forged papers to dodge taxes.
Customs raided over 30 sites across Kerala, confiscating around 36 vehicles in late September. Salmaan’s Defender was among those impounded amid suspicions of irregular importation.
Legal Proceedings and ED Involvement
Salmaan petitioned the high court in early October, leading to an interim order questioning the basis for the seizure.
Meanwhile, the Enforcement Directorate summoned him for questioning on financial dealings tied to the probe. Raids also hit properties of other celebrities like Prithviraj.
Recent Film Successes
Beyond the courtroom, Salmaan continues to shine in cinema, with his Telugu thriller Lucky Baskhar crossing the Rs.100 crore mark worldwide.
The film, directed by Venky Atluri, showcases him in a gripping role as a banker entangled in scams. Critics and audiences alike have praised his nuanced performance.
Upcoming Projects Spark Excitement
Looking ahead, Salmaan is busy with DQ41, his 41st venture, a romantic drama helmed by debutant Ravi Nelakuditi.
Pooja Hegde stars opposite him, with Ramya Krishnan in a key role under the SLV Cinemas banner. Shooting progresses, promising fresh on-screen chemistry and heartfelt storytelling.