Delhi High Court Criticizes Rajpal Yadav for Repeatedly Breaking Payment Promises
The Delhi High Court delivered a stern rebuke to Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav during his bail hearing on Tuesday, emphasizing that his incarceration stems directly from his failure to honor financial commitments. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, presiding over the case, highlighted that Yadav had assured the court on at least two dozen occasions that he would settle his dues, yet consistently failed to follow through.
Court Proceedings and Judicial Remarks
Justice Sharma remarked pointedly, "You have gone to jail because you didn’t honour your own commitment," underscoring the actor's repeated breaches of trust. The hearing, which began earlier in the day, was adjourned to 2:30 pm for further deliberation on Yadav's bail plea, which cites a family wedding as grounds for release.
The court also noted inconsistencies in the defense's approach. Initially, Yadav's counsel submitted that payment would be made directly to the complainant, but later shifted to stating the amount would be deposited before the court. Justice Sharma urged the legal team to "make up their mind" regarding the payment strategy, reflecting the court's frustration with the ongoing delays.
Background of the Legal Troubles
Rajpal Yadav's legal woes trace back to 2010 when he secured a Rs 5 crore loan to finance his directorial debut, Ata Pata Laapata. The film's commercial failure plunged him into financial distress, with the unpaid amount reportedly escalating to nearly Rs 9 crore over time. In April 2018, a magistrate court convicted Yadav and his wife, Radha Yadav, under the Negotiable Instruments Act for cheque bounce offenses, sentencing them to six months' imprisonment.
Although the Delhi High Court temporarily suspended his conviction in June 2024, it conditioned the reprieve on Yadav taking sincere and genuine steps toward an amicable settlement with the complainant, Murali Projects Pvt Ltd. However, earlier this month, the court refused to extend his surrender deadline, observing repeated breaches of repayment undertakings. Yadav was directed to surrender by 4 pm on February 4 and is currently held in Tihar Jail.
Industry Support and Yadav's Perspective
Following his surrender, several Bollywood figures have expressed solidarity. According to his manager Goldie, actors including Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn, David Dhawan, Sonu Sood, and Varun Dhawan have extended support. Goldie noted, "The industry has stood behind him like a rock—and that should be appreciated. Everyone has made commitments, but such transactions don’t happen overnight."
In interviews, Rajpal Yadav has contested the characterization of the funds as a loan. He told Lallantop that the Rs 5 crore was an investment from businessman Madhav Gopal Agarwal, intended to launch Agarwal's grandson in films. Yadav clarified, "I did not take it as a loan, he invested the money as a financer." He maintains that the case involves a security cheque and denies allegations of fraud or loan default.
Ongoing Legal Battle and Future Hearings
The case remains pending, with the next hearing scheduled for 2:30 pm. The court's firm stance highlights the serious consequences of repeatedly dishonoring court undertakings, particularly in financial disputes. As proceedings continue, the focus will be on whether Yadav can present a credible plan for repayment to secure his release.
