The Delhi High Court has closed actor Celina Jaitly’s plea seeking access to her detained brother, Vikrant Jaitly, after being informed that he has refused to communicate with her and does not wish to pursue legal assistance at present.
The court recorded that Vikrant Jaitly, a retired Major currently in custody in the UAE, had clearly conveyed during multiple consular interactions that he did not want to speak with his sister. He also declined legal representation for now and indicated that any future decisions regarding legal action would be taken by his wife.
Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav disposed of the petition after taking note of these submissions. The court was informed that Vikrant Jaitly has been granted consular access nine times since his detention, suggesting that Indian authorities have been able to maintain regular contact with him.
A detailed report prepared by the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi was submitted before the court by Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma. The report confirmed that during these interactions, Vikrant Jaitly consistently reiterated his unwillingness to communicate with his sister or engage legal counsel at this stage.
The case had seen multiple hearings in recent weeks. Earlier, the court had directed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to facilitate a meeting between Vikrant Jaitly and the concerned parties in Abu Dhabi. It had also explored the possibility of arranging legal representation through an Emirati law firm, Khalid Al Maree and Partners, which had been authorised by the Centre to assist him. The court had clarified that if he did not wish to engage that firm, he could opt for another legal representative.
During previous proceedings, the court had also encouraged coordination among family members, including Celina Jaitly and Charul Jaitly, to support efforts aimed at securing his release. The Centre had informed the court that legal assistance could be provided, including on a pro bono basis, but only if Vikrant Jaitly consented.
The government also explained that under the existing legal framework between India and the UAE, courts cannot directly facilitate meetings with detained foreign nationals. However, embassy officials can inform the individual about available legal options, subject to local laws and permissions.
Following the court’s decision, Celina Jaitly stated that her petition was motivated by concern for her brother’s safety and well-being, especially as he is in a foreign country and their parents are no longer alive. She expressed reassurance that he has received multiple consular visits and acknowledged the efforts of the government and the court.
With Vikrant Jaitly declining both communication and legal aid for the time being, the High Court has closed the matter, leaving any further action dependent on his willingness to engage in the future.
