Court reserves judgment in Rajpal Yadav's check-bounce case; slams him
What's the story
The Delhi High Court has reserved its judgment in the check bounce case against actor Rajpal Yadav, reported ANI. The decision came after a final attempt at an amicable settlement was unsuccessful, despite the court's persistent intervention. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma expressed displeasure over Yadav's inconsistent stance on repaying dues. The judge reportedly said, "I am not getting my answers. The undertaking said something else, and now you are saying something else."
Legal proceedings
Advocate highlights delay in petition filing
Advocate Avneet Singh Sikka, representing the complainant company, argued that Yadav had already accepted his conviction and couldn't evade liability. He pointed out that a revision petition filed in 2024 was delayed by 1,894 days without sufficient grounds for condonation. Sikka also emphasized that completing the sentence doesn't absolve the accused of financial obligations.
Actor's plea
Yadav's emotional plea to the court
During the proceedings, the court attempted to facilitate a settlement between the two parties. The complainant agreed to accept ₹6 crore as a full and final settlement. However, Yadav opposed the proposal, citing severe financial setbacks. He informed the court that he had sold five flats and had already paid a substantial amount. "I am not emotional... send me to jail five more times," he said in distress and frustration.
Judicial caution
Court warns against wasting judicial time
The court warned against wasting valuable judicial time and cautioned, "Never think the judge weak if the judge is nice to you." The case dates back to 2010, when Yadav borrowed ₹5 crore from Murali Projects Pvt Ltd for his directorial debut, Ata Pata Laapata (2012). The film's commercial failure led to a longstanding financial dispute. In 2018, a magisterial court convicted him of check dishonor under the Negotiable Instruments Act and sentenced him to six months in prison.
Bail granted
Interim bail was granted to Yadav earlier
Yadav surrendered to Tihar Jail on February 5, and the Hungama actor was granted interim bail on February 16. Justice Sharma had earlier ordered Yadav to deposit ₹1.5 crore by 3:00pm on February 16 for interim bail, which he complied with. However, the court had also flagged repeated non-compliance with payment undertakings despite granting opportunities to facilitate settlement. On the work front, Yadav will next be seen in Bhooth Bangla.