Sana Raees Khan, a prominent criminal lawyer based in Mumbai, has recently opened up about her relentless courtroom battle in the sensational 2021 drugs-on-cruise case that gripped India’s attention.
While the spotlight largely fell on Aryan Khan, son of Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, Sana’s pivotal role in securing bail for a co-accused, Avin Sahu, marked a turning point in the legal proceedings. In a candid interview with Siddharth Kannan, she recounted the grueling four-hour argument that led to one of the first breakthroughs in the case.
“I was in front of the same session spot where Aryan’s bail had been rejected the previous day,” Sana explained. “I argued for the whole day—literally four hours non-stop—and I got the bail.” Her determination paid off, as Avin Sahu became one of the first accused to walk free, setting a precedent that would later influence the outcome for others, including Aryan Khan himself.
At the heart of Sana’s argument was a glaring gap in the prosecution’s case: the absence of solid evidence. She pointed out that the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), which spearheaded the investigation, failed to conduct blood tests on the accused to confirm drug consumption. “They didn’t even take a blood test sample to corroborate the allegations,” she stressed.
This lack of forensic backing became a cornerstone of her defense, exposing weaknesses in the NCB’s approach and raising questions about the credibility of their claims.
Beyond legal technicalities, Sana brought a human element to her argument. She passionately opposed the idea of jailing young individuals with no criminal history alongside seasoned offenders. “These boys, these accused—they have no antecedents. They’re not history sheeters or gangsters,” she asserted. Her stance resonated with the court and underscored her belief in justice tempered with compassion.
The drugs-on-cruise case erupted in October 2021 when the NCB raided a luxury cruise ship off Mumbai’s coast, alleging that a drug-fueled party was underway. Aryan Khan, Avin Sahu, and several others were detained, sparking a media frenzy and intense public debate. While Aryan’s eventual bail grabbed headlines, Sana’s behind-the-scenes victory for Avin Sahu showcased her legal acumen and tenacity under pressure.
Reflecting on the experience, Sana’s efforts not only earned her professional acclaim but also highlighted her ability to thrive in high-stakes, high-profile cases. Her four-hour courtroom marathon stands as a testament to her skill and resolve, proving that even in the shadow of Bollywood’s biggest names, a sharp legal mind can steal the show.
As she continues to build her reputation in Mumbai’s legal circles, Sana Raees Khan remains a name to watch—a lawyer unafraid to fight for justice, one argument at a time.