Salman Khan Murder Plot: Bombay HC Grants Bail to Two Suspects Due to Lack of Evidence

Ziya Khan February 9, 2025Last Updated: February 9, 2025

On Friday, February 7, 2025, the Bombay High Court granted bail to two individuals, Gaurav Bhatia alias Sandeep Bishnoi and Waspi Mehmud Khan alias Wasim Chikna, who were arrested for allegedly being involved in a plot to assassinate Bollywood actor Salman Khan. The court cited a lack of substantial evidence against the accused. The case centers around an alleged conspiracy reportedly orchestrated by the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The duo was initially arrested for conducting reconnaissance near Khan’s Panvel farmhouse, Bandra residence, and various film locations in 2024.

Court Cites Insufficient Evidence

Justice N.R. Borkar, who reviewed the evidence, granted bail to the accused on February 6, 2025. The court noted that the prosecution’s case primarily relied on the accused being part of a WhatsApp group where the alleged assassination plot was discussed. However, the ruling stated, “Except this, no recovery of incriminating material has been found against them. Even the WhatsApp chats are vague.”

Defense Argues Charges Are Fabricated

The defense argued that the charges were exaggerated for media attention. They pointed out that another accused, Deepak Gogoi, had already been granted bail by the sessions court in 2024. Additionally, the defense claimed that neither Gaurav nor Waspi had direct links to the Bishnoi gang or any active role in the alleged plot.

Background: The Conspiracy and Prior Developments

The alleged conspiracy is part of an ongoing investigation involving 18 members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. In April 2024, two gang members fired shots outside Salman Khan’s Bandra apartment, escalating the case. The FIR named several accused, including Lawrence Bishnoi, who remains incarcerated in Ahmedabad, his absconding brother Anmol Bishnoi, and associates like Sampat Nehra, Goldie Brar, and Rohit Godhara.

International Links and Escape Plan

Investigations revealed that one of the suspects sought to procure AK-47 rifles from a Pakistan-based contact for the attack. Reports suggest the gang planned to regroup in Kanyakumari before escaping to Sri Lanka. However, their plan was thwarted with the arrest of several key members before it could be executed.This case remains under investigation as authorities continue to track the remaining absconding suspects.