Mumbai: The Bombay High Court has imposed stringent movement restrictions on Abhishek Mishra, CEO of the Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF), while granting him anticipatory bail in a rape and criminal intimidation case registered with the Malvani Police. The order, passed in Anticipatory Bail Application No. 3036 of 2025, relates to Crime No. 1313/2025, under Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (rape) and Section 351(2) relating to threats and intimidation.
Allegations Detailed in FIR
According to the FIR, the complainant has alleged that Abhishek Mishra sexually assaulted and raped her on multiple occasions under the pretext of marriage. She further claimed that Abhishek Mishra threatened to release objectionable photographs and videos if she disclosed the incidents. The complainant has also alleged that in 2025, Mishra met her again and reiterated the threats, prompting her to approach the authorities and register the present case.
High Court’s Conditions
While granting anticipatory bail, the Court noted the gravity of the allegations and directed that Abhishek Mishra shall not enter Mumbai city limits until the trial concludes, except for attending court proceedings. The order also grants the prosecution and the complainant the liberty to seek cancellation of bail if any condition is violated.
Previous FIR Against DPIFF Organisers
The case comes amid ongoing scrutiny of DPIFF’s leadership. In an earlier FIR registered by the Bandra Police, Abhishek Mishra and his father, Anil Mishra, were accused of misrepresenting DPIFF as a government-endorsed event. The complaint, reportedly filed by the BJP film cell, alleged the use of forged letters and official photographs to solicit sponsorships and sell high priced event tickets.
Both the current case and the earlier cheating-related investigation remain active. Authorities are expected to closely monitor Abhishek Mishra’s compliance with the High Court’s directives, and any violation may lead to immediate proceedings for cancellation of anticipatory bail.
