29 August,2026 09:17 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Saif Ali Khan. Pic via X
The accused in the Saif Ali Khan stabbing case has approached a Mumbai court seeking permission to plead guilty in connection with the attack on the actor at his Bandra residence in January 2025. The court has sought the prosecution's response and adjourned the matter to September 11.
According to IANS, Mohammad Shariful Islam, who is currently in judicial custody, moved the court on Friday, August 28, through his lawyer Vipul Dushing. The accused has expressed his willingness to plead guilty and has also requested the court to consider leniency while deciding the matter.
Following the application, the court directed the prosecution to file its response. The matter will now be heard on September 11.
Earlier this month, Additional Sessions Judge G P Deshmukh had framed charges against Islam in connection with the alleged attack. The charges include provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to robbery accompanied by the use of a deadly weapon, causing grievous hurt and house trespass. He has also been charged under relevant provisions of the Foreigners Act and Passport (Entry into India) Rules.
Notably, when the charges were framed, Islam had pleaded not guilty before the court. His latest application, therefore, marks a significant development in the ongoing case.
The incident took place during the early hours of January 16, 2025, when an intruder allegedly entered Saif Ali Khan's Bandra residence and attacked him with a knife. The actor sustained multiple injuries during the confrontation and was subsequently rushed to Lilavati Hospital for emergency medical treatment.
Doctors treating Saif had later revealed that he arrived at the hospital with a knife lodged near his spine. He had suffered six injuries, including two deep wounds on his left hand and neck. The actor underwent emergency surgery following the attack and was subsequently discharged from the hospital.
The incident triggered widespread concern and discussion, particularly over security arrangements at the residence of high-profile personalities. It also sparked a debate on social media about the safety and vulnerability of celebrities, with questions being raised about how the intruder managed to enter the actor's home.
Police later launched a manhunt and arrested Islam a few days after the incident. He has remained in judicial custody as the legal proceedings continue.
The latest development comes as the court considers the accused's plea to plead guilty. The prosecution's response will be considered at the next hearing on September 11.
