The Special CBI Court, on September 28, 2026, dismissed the Prevention of Corruption Act charges in the HDIL case, after the CBI reported it could not prove any public servant was complicit.
The investigation began on February 10, 2023, when the CBI registered a FIR against Rakesh Kumar Wadhawan, Sarang Wadhawan, HDIL, and unnamed public officials, citing sections 120-B, 420, 468, and 471 of the IPC along with the Prevention of Corruption Act. The agency had previously filed a chargesheet against the promoters for breach of contract and fraud, but could not substantiate the corruption angle.
After the ruling, the CBI filed an application asking the court to transfer the FIR to the jurisdictional All India Circuit Judge's Court (ACJM) to proceed with the remaining offences. Special Judge P.B. Ghuge granted the motion, instructing the CBI to file a chargesheet there. The case, however, will continue to be pursued for the IPC and BNS violations.
For the Wadhawans, the order marks a turning point in a saga that has drawn intense media scrutiny and public speculation. While the corruption allegations have been dismissed, the promoters still face legal battles over contractual disputes and alleged misappropriations. The Supreme Court is expected to hear a related appeal in the coming months.
The ruling also underscores the independence of the judiciary in adjudicating high‑profile corporate cases. Analysts say the decision could influence how future investigations involving public officials are approached. The next hearing in the ACJM Court is scheduled for October 15, 2026.