‘Action Hero Biju 2’ row: High Court halts fraud case against Nivin Pauly - Read more

The Kerala High Court has stayed proceedings in a fraud case linked to the upcoming film 'Action Hero Biju 2' which is surely a relief for actor Nivin Pauly.The case, filed by Thalayolaparambu native and film co-producer P.S. Shamnas, accused Nivin and director Abrid Shine of cheating him out of Rs 1.90 crore.

Shamnas claimed he was promised a production partnership in the sequel after suffering losses in 'Mahaveeryar', but alleged the rights were handed over to another company despite his investment.

Dispute over film rights

As reported by Manorama Online, the controversy stems from conflicting claims over the ownership of 'Action Hero Biju 2'. According to Shamnas, his financial commitment secured him a stake in the project. Justice V.G. Arun, after reviewing the circumstances, issued the stay order.

This effectively pauses the fraud case against Nivin and Abrid Shine.

Nivin’s petition pointed to a 2023 agreement signed between himself, Abrid Shine, and Shamnas. It stated that all rights belonged to Nivin’s company, Pauly Junior. Nivin alleged that Shamnas later concealed this fact and presented forged documents to the Film Chamber, even filing a sworn affidavit claiming full ownership.The Vaikom First Class Judicial Magistrate Court had initially directed the Thalayolaparambu Police to register a case against Nivin and Abrid Shine under non-bailable sections.

But Nivin’s legal team argued that the lower court failed to follow due process before ordering the investigation.

Counter-complaints and next steps

Following Nivin’s complaint, the Ernakulam Central Police had already booked Shamnas over the alleged forgery and misappropriation of film rights. Preliminary court observations suggested that documents were indeed produced in a way that could mislead judicial proceedings.Apart from this, Shamnas has publicly denied any wrongdoing. He also called Nivin’s claims baseless. On the work front, Nivin Pauly's previous hit film was 'Varshangalkku Shesham'.