Rajpal Yadav’s tryst with troubles does not seem to end in the Rs 9 crore cheque bounce case. The Delhi High Court reserved its verdict in the matter after settlement talks between the parties failed despite repeated efforts by the Court. During the hearing, Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma expressed displeasure over inconsistent submissions, while the actor made an emotional appeal.
Delhi HC rejects Rajpal Yadav’s plea
The matter was heard by Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, who expressed visible dissatisfaction over the shifting stand taken by Yadav regarding repayment of dues.
At one point, the Court remarked, “I am not getting my answers. The undertaking said something else, and now you are saying something else,” indicating concern over inconsistency in submissions. Frustrated, the judge added, “You are saying you are willing to pay, but your lawyers are saying that since you have already gone to jail, you will not pay. If you are willing to pay, then why am I hearing the matter? Make the payment.”
During the proceedings, the Court made earnest attempts to bring the parties to a negotiated settlement. On being asked, the complainant agreed to accept a reduced amount of Rs 6 crore as a full and final settlement.
However, in a visibly emotional submission, Yadav opposed the proposal, stating that he had already suffered severe financial setbacks. Appearing virtually, he told the Court that he had been compelled to sell five flats and had already paid a substantial amount. In a moment reflecting distress and frustration, he stated, “I am not emotional… send me to jail five more times.” Rajpal requested the Court to grant him 30 more days to pay the remaining Rs 6 crore. However, Justice Sharma refused, saying, “No means no. I will reserve. I will not give more time.”
In an effort to break the deadlock, the Court even proposed a structured payment of Rs 3 crore within a fixed timeline, clarifying that it was a judicial intervention and not a concluded settlement. Despite this, no consensus could be reached. The Court also took strong exception to the manner in which the proceedings unfolded, cautioning, “Never think the judge weak if the judge is nice to you,” and noting that valuable judicial time was being wasted.
With settlement efforts collapsing and differences remaining unresolved, the Court ultimately reserved its judgment in the matter.
About Rajpal Yadav’s cheque bounce case
Earlier, the High Court had extended Yadav`s interim bail after taking note of partial payments made towards the outstanding dues. The case stems from multiple cheque dishonour complaints in which the actor was convicted by the trial court. While the High Court had previously granted opportunities to facilitate a settlement, it had also flagged repeated non-compliance with payment undertakings.
On the work front, the actor is all set to appear in Bhooth Bangla, directed by Priyadarshan. The film is set to release on April 16 and stars Akshay Kumar, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Tabu in lead roles. He also has Haiwaan in his pipeline.
