Zinta case: Police ask BCCI for spectators' list

Mumbai Police, probing the case of alleged molestation filed by actress Preity Zinta against her former boyfriend Ness Wadia, has asked the BCCI to provide a list of spectators at Garware Pavilion in Wankhede stadium and details of seating arrangement among others at the time of the incident.

Police have also claimed that IPL chairman Ranjib Biswal was verbally communicated by Zinta soon after the public spat on May 30 between her and Wadia who is also co-owner of Kings XI Punjab co-owner, police said.

"We wrote to the Board of Control for Cricket in India, asking to provide the details that would help us in the probe pertaining to the alleged incident of molestation of Zinta," an officer privy to the investigation said today.

"We sought details such as list of spectators at Garware Pavilion and seating arrangement details, names of security staff and those involved in hospitality service among others. We are hoping to get these details in a day or two," the officer said.

Several players of IPL team Kings XI Punjab, its support staff and officials of Wankhede stadium were present when the alleged incident took place on May 30, claimed Zinta in her complaint.

Talking about the heated argument between Zinta and Wadia, the officer said, "Zinta had also informed IPL chairman Ranjib Biswal about unparliamentary behaviour of Wadia. We may call him for recording of statement if required."

Asked about Zinta's communication with him about the public spat on May 30, Biswal refused to comment. However, he stated he would co-operate with the investigating authorities if they call him.

The 39-year-old actress had filed a police complaint last Thursday night alleging she was molested by Wadia, 44, inside Wankhede stadium on May 30 when an IPL match was played between Kings XI Punjab and Chennai Super Kings.

Based on Zinta's written complaint, Marine Drive police registered an FIR against Wadia under IPC sections 354 (assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace), 506 (criminal intimidation) and 509 (word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman).

Zinta and Wadia had broken off their five-year-long relationship a couple of years ago but continued to share business interest.