A case has been filed against music composer and film maker Palash Muchhal in Sangali, Maharashtra under the SC/ST act. The complaint was filed by Vigyan Prakash Mane, a childhood friend of Indian women’s cricketer Smriti Mandhana. Palash is accused of using casteist slurs and fraud.
Dispute at toll plaza
According to police report, the incident occurred on November 22, 2025 near a toll plaza on the Sangli-Ashta Road. Complainant Vigyan Mane alleged that Palash Muchhal made derogatory and casteist remarks against him during an argument. Police have registered a case under Section 3(1) of the SC/ST Act, as well as Sections 351(2) and 352 of the Indian Penal Code.
Rs 25 lakh is root of the dispute
Police investigating the case stated that the entire dispute stems from a financial transaction. It’s alleged that Palash Muchhal took 25 lakh rupees from Vigyan Mane in the name of a film production project. Palash promised to complete the film within six months. When the project went unfinished, Vigyan Mane demanded his money back. This led to an argument between the two.
“Palash cheated”- Mane
Vigyan Mane explained his side of the story in a media interview. He said, “Palash assured me that the film would be completed soon, but he turned out to be a fraud. When I asked for my money, he started avoiding the issue. When I confronted him, he used extremely foul language. I can’t even repeat those words on camera. His behavior is extremely disturbing.
Relationship broken with Mandhana recently
Palash has previously been accused of cheating on Smriti. Palash Muchhal and Smriti Mandhana were in a long-term relationship. They were engaged and rumors suggested they would tie the knot in Sangli in November 2025. However, they recently announced their separation on social media.
