LegalCase – Delhi High Court Grants Interim Relief to Rajpal Yadav
LegalCase – The Delhi High Court has temporarily suspended the six-month jail sentence of actor Rajpal Yadav in a cheque bounce case after noting that he deposited Rs 1.5 crore into the complainant’s bank account. The relief will remain in place until March 18, the next date of hearing.
Court Grants Temporary Suspension
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma ordered an interim suspension of Yadav’s sentence, clarifying that the relief is limited to the upcoming hearing. The actor had requested a brief reprieve citing his niece’s wedding scheduled for February 19.
While granting the suspension, the court imposed specific conditions. Yadav has been directed to surrender his passport and is barred from leaving the country without prior judicial approval. He must also ensure his presence, either in person or through virtual appearance, when the matter is taken up again on March 18.
Background of the Case
The development follows a series of legal setbacks for the actor. Earlier this month, the high court had declined his request for additional time to surrender before jail authorities. Subsequently, Yadav complied and surrendered as directed.
The dispute stems from multiple cheque bounce complaints filed by Murali Projects Pvt Ltd. According to court records, Yadav had undertaken to repay significant sums in connection with these cases but failed to adhere to the schedule agreed upon earlier.
Court’s Earlier Observations
On February 2, the court expressed dissatisfaction with the actor’s repeated breaches of commitments. Justice Sharma observed that despite multiple opportunities and assurances, the promised repayments were not made on time. The court described his conduct as deserving criticism, particularly because he had acknowledged his liability in the matter.
The judge also highlighted that in each of the seven cases filed against him, Yadav was required to pay Rs 1.35 crore. The court directed that the amount already deposited with the Registrar General be released to the complainant.
Court records indicate that in October 2025, two demand drafts totaling Rs 75 lakh were submitted. However, a substantial amount — around Rs 9 crore — remains outstanding.
Previous Relief and Conditions
In June 2024, the high court had provided temporary relief by suspending Yadav’s conviction. That reprieve was conditional upon his making genuine efforts toward an amicable settlement with the complainant. The court had expected sincere measures to resolve the dispute and clear the dues.
Despite those concessions, the latest order suggests that the court found insufficient compliance with its earlier directions. The magistrate court had originally sentenced Yadav to six months of imprisonment in connection with the cheque bounce complaints.
Separate Matter: OCI Card Plea
In another proceeding before the high court, Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav sought the Centre’s response to a petition filed by UK-based writer and journalist Amrit Wilson. She has challenged the cancellation of her Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card.
During the hearing, the court referred to intelligence inputs alleging her involvement in activities considered adverse to national interests. The judge remarked that India should not adopt an overly permissive stance when criticism of the country surfaces on international platforms. The Centre has been asked to file its reply to Wilson’s plea.
Both matters are scheduled for further hearings, with the court expected to examine compliance and submissions in greater detail on the respective dates.