The Patiala House Court in Delhi has summoned veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra along with two other individuals in relation to a cheating case associated with the Garam Dharam Dhaba franchise. This summons was issued by Judicial Magistrate (First Class) Yashdeep Chahal, following a complaint lodged by Delhi businessman Sushil Kumar.

Garam Dharam Dhaba Controversy: Dharmendra Faces Cheating Case in Delhi Court

Delhi entrepreneur Sushil Kumar claimed that Dharmendra was enticed into making an investment in the franchise. 

"The evidence available on record, at first glance, suggests that the accused individuals persuaded the complainant in pursuit of their shared objective, and the elements constituting the offence of cheating are clearly established," the judge stated in the summoning order issued on December 5.

Garam Dharam Dhaba Controversy: Delhi Court Issues Summons to Dharmendra

The court has ordered that the individuals listed as serial numbers 1 (Dharam Singh Deol), 2, and 3 be summoned for their alleged involvement in offences under section 420 and section 120B in conjunction with section 34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Additionally, the individuals at serial numbers 2 and 3 are to be summoned for the charge of criminal intimidation as specified under section 506 of the IPC.

The court emphasized that it is well-established that during the summoning phase, the court is required to assess the case on a prima facie basis, rather than conducting a detailed examination of its merits and demerits.

The matter at hand involves allegations that in April 2018, Kumar was contacted by individuals representing Dharmendra. They suggested the establishment of a franchise for the "Garam Dharam Dhaba" along NH-24/NH-9 in Uttar Pradesh.

Kumar asserted that he was convinced to invest in the venture due to claims that the current locations in Connaught Place, Delhi, and Murthal, Haryana, were yielding significant monthly profits. He alleged that he was guaranteed considerable returns on his investment, a profit share, and comprehensive assistance in setting up the franchise.