Indian pace bowler Mohammed Shami has finally been acquitted in a long-running cheque dishonour case filed by his estranged wife, bringing an end to nearly four years of legal proceedings. A court in Alipore delivered the verdict, stating that the prosecution had failed to substantiate the allegations with sufficient evidence.
The case, which had frequently made headlines alongside Shami’s cricketing career, originated in 2018 when his wife, Hasin Jahan, alleged that a cheque worth ₹100,000 issued for household expenses was dishonoured by the bank. Following this claim, she initiated legal proceedings under provisions related to cheque dishonour, setting off a prolonged courtroom battle.
The matter remained under consideration at the Chief Judicial Magistrate’s Court in Alipore for several years. During this period, both sides presented statements and documentary evidence, while hearings continued intermittently. The prolonged nature of the proceedings contributed to sustained media attention around the cricketer’s off-field life.
On delivering its judgment, the court observed that the essential ingredients required to establish guilt under the relevant legal provisions had not been proved beyond reasonable doubt. Consequently, Shami was acquitted of all charges in the case. The ruling effectively closes one of the most prominent legal disputes involving the cricketer, although other civil matters between the parties remain ongoing.
Key timeline of the case
| Period | Event |
|---|---|
| 2018 | Complaint filed by Hasin Jahan alleging dishonour of a ₹100,000 cheque |
| 2018–2022 | Case proceeds through hearings at Alipore Chief Judicial Magistrate’s Court |
| Over four years | Evidence, statements, and cross-examinations presented |
| Recent ruling | Court acquits Mohammed Shami due to insufficient evidence |
Despite this legal relief, Shami’s personal legal challenges are not entirely resolved. A separate maintenance case between the couple continues to be heard. Under existing court directives, Shami has been making monthly payments towards maintenance for his wife and child, amounting to ₹150,000 for his spouse and ₹250,000 for the child.
On the professional front, Shami has remained active in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League, continuing to represent top-level franchises. While he has faced periods of omission from the national side in recent selections, he has maintained his presence in competitive cricket, working to sustain his performance standards amid personal challenges.
Following the verdict, Shami expressed relief, remarking that not everything in life is within human control, but emphasised his continued commitment to perseverance and professional discipline. The acquittal marks a significant turning point in a legal saga that had shadowed his career for several years.