Celina Jaitly’s Plea for Brother Vikrant Jaitly Dismissed by Delhi High Court
The Delhi High Court has closed the petition filed by actress Celina Jaitly seeking assistance in communicating with her brother, Major (Retd.) Vikrant Jaitly, who is currently detained in the United Arab Emirates. The court’s decision came after learning that Vikrant Jaitly does not wish to communicate with his sister and prefers to handle his legal matters independently, with the guidance of his wife, Charul Jaitly.
Background of the Case
Celina Jaitly had approached the court requesting the Ministry of External Affairs to facilitate communication with her brother and ensure he received proper legal assistance and welfare support. Vikrant Jaitly has been in detention in the UAE, prompting Celina’s concern for his safety and well-being.
Court Findings and Vikrant Jaitly’s Position
Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav noted that Vikrant Jaitly had been granted consular access multiple times – nine times since his arrest – but had consistently declined legal assistance, even turning down a pro bono offer from Khalid Al Maree, and Partners. He unequivocally stated his unwillingness to be represented by any law firm at this time. The court was also informed that any decisions regarding legal representation would be made by his wife.
Celina Jaitly’s Statement
Following the court’s decision, Celina Jaitly released a statement on Instagram expressing gratitude to the court and the government for their attention to the matter. She emphasized that her petition stemmed from a deep concern for her brother’s safety and well-being, particularly in the absence of their parents. She acknowledged navigating personal challenges, including ongoing matrimonial proceedings, but felt a duty to ensure her brother was not without support. Jaitly also expressed relief that the Ministry of External Affairs had maintained regular consular access and was working to ensure proper legal representation and welfare support for Vikrant.
Government and Embassy Involvement
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi submitted a report detailing interactions with Vikrant Jaitly, confirming his unwillingness to communicate with his sister. Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma presented the report to the court. The court had previously directed the Ministry of External Affairs to arrange a meeting with Vikrant Jaitly to understand his legal preferences and explore legal representation options.
Earlier Court Directives
On February 17, the High Court had initially granted the Ministry of External Affairs four weeks to arrange a meeting with Vikrant Jaitly in Abu Dhabi. The court had also considered the legal assistance framework between India and the UAE, acknowledging limitations under the bilateral treaty regarding direct meetings with foreign nationals in detention.
Vikrant Jaitly’s Wife’s Request
Vikrant Jaitly’s wife requested that the details of the case not be made public, a request the court acknowledged.
Sources: Hindustan Times, India Today, Economic Times