Government Confirms Active Engagement in Detained Army Major's Case
The Ministry of External Affairs has officially confirmed that Indian authorities are maintaining regular contact with United Arab Emirates officials regarding the detention of Major Vikram Jaitly, who happens to be the brother of Bollywood actress Celina Jaitly. The retired army officer has been held in the UAE for more than twelve months under circumstances that remain unclear.
During a press briefing on Friday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated: "Our embassy is seized of the matter. We have been making consular visits to him, and we have done so on four occasions." The spokesperson emphasized that the Indian government remains in close coordination with Major Vikram's family members, including his wife, and is providing all possible assistance to the detained Indian national.
Delhi High Court Intervenes in the Matter
The legal dimension of this case took a significant turn when the Delhi High Court issued directives on Monday, ordering concerned authorities to arrange for effective legal representation for the detained former army officer. The court has demanded an official response from the central government regarding a petition filed by Celina Jaitly, who has been actively seeking proper legal support for her brother.
According to court documents, the next hearing has been scheduled for December 4, by which time the government must submit its formal response. During the recent proceedings, government representatives informed the court that Indian officials in the UAE had already provided consular access to the detainee.
Family's Struggle and Background Details
Celina Jaitly's legal application revealed that her brother, officially identified as Major (Retd.) Vikrant Kumar Jaitly, has been living in the UAE since 2016. He was employed with the MATITI Group, an organization involved in trading, consultancy, and risk management services.
The plea highlighted concerning gaps in information, alleging that despite the passage of over one year, the Union Ministry of External Affairs had failed to obtain basic details about Major Jaitly's welfare conditions and legal status in the UAE. The actress's legal counsel also brought to the court's attention that despite multiple attempts, family members have been unable to establish communication with the detained individual.
Responding to these concerns, the presiding judge issued additional directions for authorities to facilitate contact between the detained major and both his sister and wife, recognizing the importance of maintaining family connections during such difficult circumstances.
Celina Jaitly's Emotional Response
Speaking to ANI after the Delhi High Court's intervention, Celina Jaitly described the past year as "a nightmare" for her family. She expressed gratitude for the court's judgment, stating: "As India is rising and becoming bigger and bigger in the international diaspora, our soldiers are becoming targets overseas over and over again. I think today's judgment will really help in bringing him back."
The actress specifically acknowledged her legal team, including lawyer Raghav, for their efforts in moving the case forward. The family remains hopeful that with continued diplomatic engagement and legal proceedings, Major Vikram Jaitly will soon return home safely.
