The Karnataka Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has sought information from actor Sunny Leone as part of its investigation into the alleged ₹2,400-crore Shivam Associates investment fraud.

However, officials clarified that the notice does not accuse Leone of any wrongdoing. Instead, investigators want details about payments linked to her appearance in a film produced by the main accused in the case.

CID Tracks Flow of Money

The CID is examining financial transactions connected to Shivam Associates and its promoter, Shivanand Neelannavar.

Investigators are tracing how money moved through various businesses and projects linked to Neelannavar. They are also trying to establish a complete financial trail.

According to officials, the agency has been collecting information from several individuals and organisations connected to the accused.

Fraud Allegedly Involved Thousands of Investors

The investigation centres on allegations that Shivam Associates collected funds through unauthorised deposit and investment schemes. Authorities claim that Neelannavar raised money from around 40,700 investors through programmes that allegedly violated financial regulations.

As a result, the alleged fraud has grown into a major case involving nearly ₹2,400 crore.

Film Payment Comes Under Investigation

Meanwhile, investigators are also examining payments related to the 2023 Kannada film Champion, which Neelannavar produced. Officials said Sunny Leone received around ₹1 crore for performing in the popular song “Dingara Billi Naanu”.

Therefore, the CID has requested details about the payment as part of its broader effort to track the movement of funds. Investigators want to determine whether any money used for the film or related expenses came from funds collected through the alleged investment schemes.

No Allegations Against the Actor

At the same time, officials stressed that Sunny Leone is not an accused in the case. They said the notice is purely part of the financial investigation and aims to verify transactions linked to the accused.

For now, the CID's focus remains on understanding how investor funds were handled and whether any of the money was diverted into film production or other ventures connected to Neelannavar.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities continue to examine the financial network surrounding the alleged fraud.