Housefull 5 actress Jacqueline Fernandez has taken a major legal step in the Rs 200 crore money laundering case linked to alleged conman Sukesh Chandrasekhar. On Friday, she approached a Delhi court seeking permission to become an approver in the Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation.
If the court allows it, this move could significantly change her role in the case and may also impact her legal future.
Jacqueline Fernandez Approver Plea In Rs 200 Crore Case
The application was filed by Jacqueline Fernandez’s lawyer before special judge Prashant Sharma at the Patiala House Courts. After receiving the plea, the court issued a notice to the ED and asked for its response. The next hearing is scheduled for April 20.
Her legal team also told the court that a separate request had already been sent to the ED. This is an important development in the ongoing investigation.
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If approved, Jacqueline would no longer remain only an accused. She would become a prosecution witness. This means she would have to share full details about the case and others involved.
In return, such cooperation may lead to leniency, which could include a pardon or a lighter punishment, depending on the court’s decision.
What The Move Means For Jacqueline Fernandez
At present, the case has not reached trial. It is still at the stage of arguments on charges, meaning formal charges are yet to be framed.
The ED case is based on a Delhi Police FIR from August 2021. It alleges that Sukesh Chandrasekhar and his associates cheated and extorted around Rs 200 crore from Aditi Singh, wife of former Ranbaxy promoter Shivender Singh. He is accused of impersonating a senior government official to manipulate bail-related matters.
In its 2022 supplementary complaint, the ED named Jacqueline Fernandez as an accused. The agency claimed she received over ₹7 crore worth of luxury gifts linked to alleged proceeds of crime.
However, Jacqueline’s legal team has consistently said she had no knowledge of any criminal activity. They argue that she had no intention or awareness of the source of the gifts.
Investigators, on the other hand, claim the money was routed through shell companies and complex transactions. Some of it was allegedly used for luxury purchases, which later became part of the case evidence.
Background Of Sukesh Chandrasekhar Case
The case originally included eight accused, with Sukesh Chandrasekhar as the main accused and Pinky Irani acting as an intermediary. With Jacqueline’s name added, the total number of accused rose to nine.
She was granted bail in 2022 after the court noted that her knowledge or intent still needed to be examined.
Meanwhile, the investigation continues under the Delhi Police Special Cell under MCOCA provisions.
Sukesh Chandrasekhar himself is facing multiple cases across India and has reportedly secured bail in 27 out of 31 cases.
