Nitin Desai death: 3 representatives of Edelweiss Group appear before Raigad police

Photo/Nitin Desai`s official Instagram account

Three representatives of ECL Finance Company/Edelweiss Group appeared before the Raigad police in Maharashtra on Tuesday as part of the inquiry into the alleged suicide of film art director Nitin Desai, according to an official statement.

Nitin Desai, 57, known for his work in acclaimed Bollywood films such as "Lagaan" and "Jodhaa Akbar," was found hanging at his studio in Karjat, Raigad district, on August 2.

The police registered a criminal case on August 4 against five individuals, including Edelweiss Group Chairman Rashesh Shah, for allegedly abetting Nitin Desai's suicide.

On August 5, the Raigad police issued a notice to the ECL Finance Company/Edelweiss Group MD, requesting their personal appearance on Tuesday.

As per the official report, three representatives from the company appeared before the police at the Khalapur police station around 11 am, and their statements were being recorded.

The Raigad police have requested related documents and information related to the case. The investigation officer in the case is collecting information from the advisor, financial advisor, and accountant of ND Studio, the company set up by Nitin Desai.

Desai's company, ND's Art World Pvt Ltd, had defaulted on a Rs 252 crore loan repayment to creditors. The Mumbai bench of the National Company Law Tribunal had initiated insolvency proceedings against the company.

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An FIR was registered on August 4 under Indian Penal Code sections 306 (abetment of suicide) and 34 (common intention) at the Khalapur police station, based on a complaint filed by Nitin Desai's wife, Neha Desai. The FIR named several individuals, including Edelweiss Chairman Rashesh Shah and company official Smit Shah. Edelweiss ARC, in a statement, denied putting any undue pressure on Desai for loan recovery.

Raigad police investigating the alleged suicide of film art director Desai issued notice to ECL Finance Company/Edelweiss Group MD seeking personal appearance on Tuesday.

A day before, police registered a criminal case against five persons, including Edelweiss Group chairman Rashesh Shah, for alleged abetment of Desai's suicide.

Police have so far recorded statements of 15 witnesses, the official said on Saturday.

"A notice has been issued to ECL Finance Company/Edelweiss Group MD. They have to remain present at Khalapur police station on August 8 with related information," the PRO said.

Raigad Police has sought related documents and information about the case. (Agencies)