Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal has been granted interim bail for two months on medical grounds in connection with a money laundering case.
· The decision was made by Justice NJ Jamadar, who stipulated that Goyal must furnish a surety of Rs one lakh and remain within Mumbai unless granted prior permission by the special court.
· Goyal, had petitioned for interim bail on medical and humanitarian grounds, citing his battle with cancer, as well as that of his wife, Anita Goyal.
· During the hearing, Goyal’s legal representatives argued for his release on humanitarian grounds, emphasizing his deteriorating physical and mental health.
· Goyal’s arrest by the ED in September 2023 stemmed from allegations of money laundering and misappropriation of loans amounting to Rs 538.62 crore from Canara Bank intended for Jet Airways.
Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal has been granted interim bail for two months on medical grounds by the Bombay High Court in connection with a money laundering case linked to Canara Bank. The decision was made by Justice NJ Jamadar, who stipulated that Goyal must furnish a surety of Rs one lakh and remain within Mumbai unless granted prior permission by the special court. The court also mandated the surrender of Goyal’s passport as part of the conditions for his release.
Goyal, who was arrested in connection with the money laundering case, had petitioned for interim bail on medical and humanitarian grounds, citing his battle with cancer, as well as that of his wife, Anita Goyal. In February, a special court had initially denied Goyal bail but allowed him to seek medical treatment at a private hospital of his choice. However, his formal bail plea was rejected in March, prompting him to appeal to the High Court for bail on both substantive and interim grounds due to his medical condition.
During the hearing, Goyal’s legal representatives, Harish Salve and Aabad Ponda, argued for his release on humanitarian grounds, emphasizing his deteriorating physical and mental health. Meanwhile, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), represented by Hiten Venegaonkar and Aayush Kedia, opposed Goyal’s bail plea but expressed willingness to extend his hospitalization for an additional four weeks pending a fresh medical assessment.
Goyal’s arrest by the ED in September 2023 stemmed from allegations of money laundering and misappropriation of loans amounting to Rs 538.62 crore from Canara Bank intended for Jet Airways. His wife, Anita Goyal, faced similar charges and was arrested in November 2023, although she was subsequently granted bail by the special court on the basis of her age and medical condition.
The grant of interim medical bail to Naresh Goyal underscores the intersection of legal proceedings and health concerns in high-profile cases, raising questions about the balance between ensuring accountability and safeguarding the rights of individuals facing serious charges.
(With inputs from agencies)
